The International Vocal Competition ’s-Hertogenbosch (IVC) was founded in 1954 and is the sole classical vocal competition in the Netherlands that involves oratorio and art song as well as opera, with much attention also being paid to 20th century and to contemporary music. Over the past 60 years the IVC has become a permanent fixture amongst international classical vocal competitions; as such it is one of the Netherlands’ most important cultural events from an international viewpoint. The IVC is a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC) and fervently supports the discovery and development of young vocal talent. The IVC’s purpose is described best through its own 'Triple D’ status: Discovery, Development and Delivery. Discovery through the Competition itself; Development through master classes given by renowned singers who are able to transmit their knowledge and technical skills; training weeks, summer schools and the provision of professional advice; Delivery of the singers to impresarios as well as to concert, opera and festival managements in the IVC’s professional network. The IVC promotes the careers of talented singers with recommendations and introductions to juries, concert managements, casting directors, impresarios, the media and concert and theatrical audiences. The juries for both the Preliminary Rounds and the Competition proper are made up of a combination of famous singers and highly-placed people in the opera and concert world. Those taking part in the Competition will also be given the opportunity to take part in master classes and a summer school; they will also be put in contact with various opera studios, orchestras and impresarios. The 53rd IVC will be held at the 'Theater aan de Parade' venue in 's-Hertogenbosch from 20-24 November 2019.