The message reads, in part:
“Over the years, your festival has earned widespread acclaim as a vibrant cultural event, eagerly anticipated by music lovers across Russia. This success is due above all to its founder and artistic director – maestro Ildar Abdrazakov.
By bringing together renowned performers and emerging talents on its stages, the festival makes a profound contribution to preserving and advancing the finest traditions of the national opera school. It also nurtures young vocalists in their professional growth, including graduates of the festival’s Educational Programme and soloists from Russia’s leading theatres through its Youth Opera Programme. And of course, the festival serves a noble mission of enlightening audiences and popularising opera.”