Palm Springs Opera Guild FAQ
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see yours here, call us at 760-325-6107 or send a note through our contact page.
About the Guild
Is the Palm Springs Opera Guild the same as Palm Springs Grand Opera?
No. The Palm Springs Opera Guild is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose roots in the Coachella Valley go back to 1968. We are not affiliated with Palm Springs Grand Opera or any other opera company. For Guild events, memberships and donations, visit palmspringsoperaguild.org.
What does the Palm Springs Opera Guild do?
Our mission is to bring the art of opera to the Coachella Valley through educational outreach, live performances, and financial support for artists. Each season includes concerts, lectures, receptions and trips, plus three signature programs:
- Opera in the Park, a free outdoor concert in Palm Springs
- The National Vocal Competition, which supports emerging opera singers from across the U.S.
- Opera in the Schools, which brings live opera to more than 15,000 students in the Palm Springs and Desert Sands Unified School Districts
The 2026-27 season is our 59th. See the full Season 59 calendar.
Is the Guild a nonprofit, and how can I donate?
Yes. The Palm Springs Opera Guild is a 501(c)(3) organization, Tax ID 95-6220739. You can give online and direct your gift to Opera in the Park, the Vocal Competition, Opera in the Schools, or another purpose on our Donate page.
How do I contact the Guild or volunteer?
Call 760-325-6107, Monday through Thursday, 10:00am to 4:00pm PST, or use our contact form. Our mailing address is PO Box 5022, Palm Springs, CA 92263.
Volunteers greet guests, help with check-in and seating, and must be 21 or older. Learn more on our Volunteer page.
Events & Membership
Do I have to be a member to attend Guild events?
No. You do not have to be a member to attend. Some events require reservations because seating is limited, and others are open to all with no RSVP needed. Membership adds benefits such as discounted or complimentary admission to select events. Details for each event are on our Events page.
How does membership work?
Memberships run on a rolling basis, so yours stays active for one full year from the date you join. Levels range from a free Studente membership for full-time students and a $25 Professore membership for teachers, up to Bravissimo at $10,000 and above. A portion of your membership is tax deductible. Compare every level, or use the Membership Wizard, on our Join page.
When and where is Opera in the Park?
Opera in the Park is our free outdoor concert at Sunrise Park in Palm Springs, featuring professional artists and a full orchestra. The 2027 concert is Sunday, April 4, at 5:30pm. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, or see the event page for table and chair seating options.
What is the National Vocal Competition?
For over 43 years, our Vocal Competition has supported emerging opera talent, with more than $1 million in scholarships awarded to more than 300 singers. Now a national competition, its finalists compete for more than $30,000 in prize money. Past competitors include Sondra Radvanovsky, Angela Meade and Angel Blue. The 2026 Finals are Saturday, December 5, at 1:00pm at the Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory, and admission is free. See competition details.
