Established by the Will of Richard F. Gold, The Shoshana Foundation Inc. carries out Richard's life-long dream of assisting young, gifted American singers with their career development. After working at both The New York City Opera and the Chamber Opera Theater of New York, Richard knew first-hand how critical the early stages of a young singer's career was. The Shoshana Foundation grew out of Richard's deep love of opera, and his commitment to young singers who keep it alive and thriving. 

 Incorporated in 1986, The Shoshana Foundation annually awards The Richard F. Gold Career Grant to young singers through music schools and opera apprenticeship programs. All recipients are selected by their respective schools or programs. The Foundation does not accept applications or requests for auditions.

MUSIC SCHOOLS

Awarded to the most promising graduating Senior with a concentration in Voice Studies. Music schools currently participating include:

          The Juilliard School                               The New School
          Temple University                                   Mannes School of Music
          Manhattan School of Music                    LA Opera Young Artist

         
OPERA APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS

Awarded to the most gifted singers enrolled in established opera apprenticeship programs who plan to pursue opera professionally. Opera companies currently participating include:

            Houston Grand Opera                      Merola Opera Program
            Lyric Opera of Chicago                    Adler Fellowship
            Ryan Opera Center                          Opera National de Paris                         
          

FOUNDATION REQUESTS

   Recipients of the award are asked to:

    Keep the Foundation informed of their professional development.

   Include the award in their biographies and interviews as

                   "THE RICHARD F. GOLD CAREER GRANT"

   Give an informal performance of a charitable nature during the  following year in an institution where an audience is assured such as a school, a hospital, a home for the elderly, etc. The Foundation will underwrite expenses for the charitable recital.

SUPPLEMENTAL GRANTS

All grant recipients are encouraged to apply directly to the Foundation for supplementary funds. Such funds are awarded for specific projects and are based on merit and the financial need of the applicant. These funds are given solely at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Shoshana Foundation.