On Friday, April 24, the stages of the VIII International Music Competition and Festival «Road to Yalta» began. Festival audiences were treated to a glimpse of all 15 participants in this season's competition and their solo performances, featuring Soviet songs about the Great Patriotic War in their native languages. You can also learn more about our international guests and their creative biographies on our website in the Festival section.

The Incorporation of cultural and leisure centres of the Eastern Administrative District, where the first day of the competition took place, warmly welcomed our international participants, the festival team, numerous media outlets, and, of course, the audience. Each performer felt their support. But beyond the applause, the vocalists also received comments from the jury, which included Chairman, People's Artist of the RSFSR Lev Leshchenko, People's Artist of the Russian Federation Denis Maidanov, and Honored Artist of the Russian Federation Uta. The contestants received numerous compliments and encouragement before the final gala concert in the Kremlin on April 28. The jury will be present in full force to evaluate the contestants and determine the winners. Judging by the performances on the first day of competition it's impossible to guess who will take the top spots.

The witty remarks of the hosts, television journalists Ernest Matskiavichius and Tatyana Remezova, added a special touch to the competition evening and created a comfortable, almost family-like atmosphere in the hall.

Photo by Artyom Lunev and Ekaterina Strunilina