The telegram reads, in part:
“Elena Obraztsova – a person of unique talent and great creative energy – was the inspiration behind this respectable competition, its organiser and leader. She saw her calling in serving culture, in supporting and educating gifted young people. The success of this competition, the achievements of its laureates contribute to the commemoration of this great Russian singer.
It is a pleasure to see the further development of Elena Obraztsova’s creative and pedagogical ideas. Gathered again here, at the famous Grand Hall of the St Petersburg Philharmonic Society are promising hopefuls from Russia and a number of other countries. They represent various schools of singing, but they are united in their dream to make a career as singers and to contribute to the development of opera signing in the world.”
The 10th Competition of Young Opera Singers is taking place in St Petersburg on August 18–25. Taking part are vocalists from 19 countries. The international jury includes world opera stars and major figures of the musical theatre.
This year the competition is dedicated to its founder Elena Obraztsova (1939–2015) – an outstanding Soviet and Russian opera singer.