Currently underway in Astana is the Nurjamal Usenbayeva International Vocal Competition, running from 1-4 October and featuring the talents of professional singers from various countries.
The Erkegali Rakhmadiyev State Academic Philharmonic organised the second staging of this event in conjunction with the support of the Astana City Administration.
The aim of the competition is to showcase Kazakhstan’s rich vocal heritage, as well as support young singers and discover new talent. Entrants are not only classical and operatic performers, but vocalists aged 20-35 of many different types.
Free to enter for all those in the area who would like to witness some impressive vocal talent, the four days of music are not only offered to the public for entertainment purposes, but also help launch the careers of gifted young artists, popularise the creative legacy of Kazakhstani composers, and strengthen international artistic ties.
Opening the festival on 1 October were Erlan Sairov, a deputy of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Parliament, joined by representatives of the Ministry of Culture and Information, and People’s Artist of Kazakhstan Khorlan Kalilambekova.
Nurjamal Usenbayeva, renowned singer and People’s Artist of the Republic of Kazakhstan, performed masterpieces of world opera and took her place as chair of the jury.
Other judges are distinguished musicians, educators, conductors, and soloists from leading opera houses around the world: George Pehlivanian (USA, France), Anna Samuil (Germany), Gianni Leccese (Italy), Marat Gali (Russia), Shi Heng (China), and Deividas Staponkus (Lithuania), all with a collective musical CV as lengthy as the competition itself.
From 85 applicants in auditions in the Chamber Hall and Concert Hall of the Erkegali Rakhmadiyev State Academic Philharmonic, 30 singers were selected for the event itself.
Masterclasses led by jury members will also be held as part of the competition, and a highlight of the competition will be the participation of the Erkegali Rakhmadiyev State Academic Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra in the final round, conducted by Abzal Mukhitdin, also People’s Artist of Kazakhstan, Artistic Director, and Chief Conductor of the orchestra.
The competition’s Grand Prix is 5,000,000 tenge, while the best performance by a Kazakhstani composer will also receive a cash prize established by the Peace Through Culture International Association.
As stated, entry is free, and the venue is located on 32 Kenesary, Astana, Kazakhstan. Those interested are invited to call for further information +77014696639 or via this link.
