BBC Cardiff Singer of The World Competition Features Three American, Three South Korean Contestants; Can U.S. Repeat?

The finalists for this year's BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition were announced this week, showcasing 20 vocalists from different nations around the world. The finals will begin on June 14 and continue for eight days (from Classical Music News).

Every vocalist will perform their own programs, performing both concert and operatic works. They will receive accompaniment from the BBC Orchestra of Wales and the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera.

"Our final 20 are an exciting range of voice types, and an amazing array of talent," said artistic director David Jackson, in his first year at the position. "They come from all over the world, with a diverse range of backgrounds and experience. It really is a privilege to be involved in this great event, in its 32nd year."

Although Jackson lists it as in its "32nd year," the event actually takes place even two years, due to the logistical difficulties of scouting the planet for contestants. The 2013 winner was Jamie Barton, an American mezzo-soprano from Georgia.

The victor receives prize of £15,000 (and a trophy of course). This year's contestants are listed below, alphabetically by nation.

Belarus: Marna Pinchuk (mezzo-soprano)

Belarus: Nadine Koutcher (soprano)

Canada: Aviva Fortunata (soprano)

France: Anaïs Constans (soprano)

Germany: Sebastian Pilgrim (bass)

Italy: Roberto Lorenzi (bass-baritone)

Malta: Nico Darmanin (tenor)

Mongolia: Amartuvishin Enkhbat (baritone)

Norway: Ingeborg Gillebo (mezzo-soprano)

Switzerland: Regula Mühlemann (soprano)

South Africa: Kelebogile Besong (soprano)