Biography
Dutch-born singer Elim van Delft (2002) started vocal training at the age of thirteen. It was clear that this young opera singer possessed a rare and powerful voice. His passion for classical music surfaced early, and through remarkable dedication and a naturally rich vocal timbre, he quickly distinguished himself from his peers. His voice was soon recognized as being of international calibre.
An early milestone in his career came when he received a diploma at the prestigious Elena Obraztsova International Singing Competition in Saint Petersburg — a competition founded by the legendary mezzo-soprano herself. His diploma was presented by Natalia Ignatenko, on behalf of the international jury with as chairwomen Larisa Gergieva. This early international recognition affirmed his exceptional potential.
In November 2017, Elim released his debut album, featuring repertoire in four languages, showcasing his linguistic versatility and musical sensitivity. The following year, he starred as Bastien in Mozart's opera Bastien und Bastienne, in a production directed by his mentor and vocal coach, soprano assoluto dramático Elena Syssojeva. The opera was performed at the historic castle of Schagen and praised for its charm and musical purity. That same year, he was personally invited by the great Maestro Peter Dvorský to perform in Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic), accompanied by pianist Lenka Navrátilová — a performance that was warmly received and expanded his growing international reputation
At the age of sixteen Elim exchanged the North-Holland countryside for the city of The Hague. Where he started at the School for Young Talent at the Royal Conservatoire. Studying under soprano Irene Verburg. He obtained his diploma and managed to complete the subject of Musical Style History with high distinction (9/10).
In 2024, Elim performed alongside the renowned Dutch star Karin Bloemen in a genre-defying rendition of Barcelona, taking on the role of Montserrat Caballé, with La Bloemen as Freddie Mercury. A performance hailed as a musical triumph, praised for its vocal brilliance and theatrical flair, and brought his talent to an ever wider audience.
In April 2025, Elim received the Maria Callas Award in the category Opera - Youth of Ioanna Efthimiou at the legendary Opéra de Monte-Carlo. The prestigious gala ceremony was graced under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco — a testament to his rising stature in the international operatic world.
Elim curated a unique concert program that celebrates the richness of baroque music through the works of Henry Purcell and Antonio Vivaldi, while shedding light on the often-overlooked Dutch influence on this pivotal musical era. Titled Baroque Legacy, the production offers an emotional journey through themes of power, loss, and legacy — blending historically informed performance with innovative storytelling, the program reflects Elim's artistic vision and deep appreciation for baroque expression, and his commitment to making historical music resonate with modern audiences.
Today, Elim continues to captivate audiences with a voice that combines technical mastery, a profound connection to the operatic tradition, and an unprecedented exceptional vocal range from bass to soprano.
