This is something I know next-to-nothing about, but I thought it might be of interest to aspiring vocalists and their parents:
Very good article @AsMother. Really informative and quite surprising to see a 21 year old soprano as a winner! I especially learned a lot from the Q&A. It’s good to ask questions, as the author did, to develop a better understanding of the process.
Regional Finals are also open to the public, at least in the regions I’m familiar with. Back in the dark ages, I even went for free. Last time I attended, a couple years ago, I paid $40 a ticket. I’ve never seen much advertising on the performances. There are District Finals also.
Yes. A 21 year old soprano as winner is surprising, and could lead to false expectations if we or our kids think this is in any way a normal achievement. FWIW I agree with the author about the talent of the Polish fellow- have heard him at AVA and would expect to see more of him in the future.