Vocal buffs take note: The 21st annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition will take place Saturday on the campus of the UT Southwestern Medical Center. Twenty young singers will compete for several thousand dollars in prize money. They will be judged by operatic professionals and heard by an audience of knowledgeable fans. This always produces some exciting performances.

The event is open to the public without charge. The entire field, chosen from almost 100 applicants, will be heard from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Finalists will return for an evening session beginning at 7:30. A champagne and dessert reception will precede the final awards ceremony.

Jonathan Pell, director of artistic operations for the Dallas Opera, will head a jury panel including representatives from the Arizona Opera, Opera Colorado, the Santa Fe Opera and the Metropolitan Opera National Council.

The competition will be in UT Southwestern’s Gooch Auditorium, 5323 Harry Hines at Butler. Free parking is available.