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YOUNG CONTESTANTS CONQUERED THE JURY

Today the International Press Center has invited journalists to meet with Honored Artist of Belarus, artistic director and conductor of the Presidential Orchestra of Belarus Victor Babarikin, who is presiding as chairman of International Jury of the XIV International Children Music Contest “Vitebsk-2016”.

Victor Babarikin noted the impeccable organization of the competition and a very good level of young performers:

- It happened that this year’s contest features only girls. They have done very well, have given eye-catching performances. Their repertoire is well-chosen. I was amazed. The contest is interesting for its young talents and gives them a good start. Even for those who didn’t win, such experience will be of use in their lives.

- Why do you think there were no boys in the contest?

- That may be because girls are more active. But I can change this situation. My son’s growing up, he’s 6 years old.

- Have you singled out any performers that you’d like to collaborate?

- Yes, I’ve picked out five performers, but at the moment I won’t mention their names. We’ll have many programs and will invite them.

In the previous festival editions the Presidential Orchestra of the Republic of Belarus presented a sympho- rock-program “Hurricane” (2012), a rock concert, “Smoke On the Water” (2013) and a concert “Rock Meets opera” (2014).

Victor Babarikin told about the success of the orchestra’s program “Smoke On the Water. The best” in Minsk and noted that they would be happy to present it at “Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk”. The orchestra’s musicians are unique. They are the winners of international competitions, holders of the scholarship of the President's fund for the support of the talented youth. They tour extensively and perform as soloists.

- The Presidential Orchestra attends the meetings of the Presidents of different countries. What are your impressions from the acquaintance with top officials?

- I was impressed by President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. In Minsk he came up to the orchestra, took the score and started singing off-hand.

It was pleasant to know that in September the Presidential Orchestra of Belarus conducted by Victor Babarikin is to perform at the “New Wave” festival in Sochi together with the classical music stars Dmitry Hvorostovsky and Anna Netrebko.