It’s been a dazzling year in music and the performing arts and, as 2025 draws to a close, Limelight is gearing up to present its Artists of the Year.

Our trusty reviewers have seen, heard and reviewed hundreds of performances in every state and territory in 2025 and along with Limelight‘s subscribers they have distilled a shortlist of the composers, singers, musicians, conductors, directors and ensembles who have made the biggest impression on classical music and opera this year.

But we also want you to have your say. Who are the Australian and international artists who most thrilled and entertained you?

Need some reminders? Scroll down for a concise and in-no-particular-order reminder of this year’s contenders.

Australian Artist of the Year:

In 2023, Limelight named Erin Helyard its Artist of the Year, and in the seasons since he has only deepened his reputation as the leader of Pinchgut Opera. With a wonderful Goldberg Variations under his belt, to see him shortlisted again this year is no surprise.

Among Australia’s most beloved and regularly performed composers, Elena Kats-Chernin continues to craft music that is inventive, virtuosic and...