At a press conference dedicated to the prestigious artistic competition, members of the jury summarized the results of the first stage, which was held online from April 8 to 17. A total of 137 applications were submitted to the organizers, including 10 entries from young performers from Turkey, Belarus, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Twenty participants, who demonstrated a high level of professionalism, artistry, and emotional depth of performance, advanced to the second stage.

The contestants were tasked with performing works from Roza Baglanova’s repertoire. According to Akan Abdualiyev, Director of “Kazakhconcert,” this highlights generational continuity and contributes to the preservation of national musical heritage, which gains new interpretations through the creativity of young vocalists.

The performers were evaluated by a jury chaired by the legend of the national stage, People’s Artist of the Kazakh SSR and laureate of the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Lucky Kesoglu. The jury also included Honored Figures of Kazakhstan Bolatbek Bukenov, Zhenis Iskakov, and Sembek Zhumagaliyev, as well as People’s Artist of Kyrgyzstan Yryskeldi Osmonkulov. During the press conference, they shared their views on the development of contemporary vocal art and wished the participants further creative success.

“First of all, I would like to thank the organizers of this wonderful competition dedicated to the memory of the unforgettable Roza Tazhibayevna Baglanova, with whom I had the honor to perform on the same stage. Her legacy is immortal. She was an extraordinary woman, and the audience truly loved her. In the Soviet era, mounted police were deployed at her concerts due to the enormous crowds wishing to hear her voice. I hope this competition will help young singers find their place in the professional world. I believe they are all exceptionally talented, and their performances will certainly bring us a sense of celebration,” said Lucky Kesoglu.

The press conference was also attended by Roza Baglanova’s son, Tazhen Baglanov, and his wife Maral. They announced a special prize from the family of the legendary singer. According to Maral Baglanova, this year, in addition to a commemorative statuette and a cash prize, an authentic replica of Roza Baglanova’s favorite earrings will be awarded, specially crafted by KazakhYuvelir.

The names of the winners will be announced during the gala concert, which will take place this evening at the QAZAQSTAN Concert Hall.

The International Vocal Competition named after Roza Baglanova is organized by the State Academic Concert Organization “Kazakhconcert” with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The project aims to support young vocalists and promote Kazakh musical art on the international stage.