Passion for singing is universal.
The proof came from our experience in Beijing, China, on March 22–26, 2016, at the Classical Singer International Vocal Competition, in partnership with Libomo International. More than 280 singers from mainland China and surrounding countries came to the China Conservatory of Music in Beijing to perform and audition in front of 12 American schools, including the Juilliard School, New England Conservatory, Eastman School of Music, Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Boston University, New York University, Temple University, Longy School of Music of Bard College, University of Houston, University of Maryland, and Cleveland Institute of Music.
Singing in front of a near-capacity crowd at the main concert hall at the China Conservatory, finalists in the Musical Theatre, Classical High School, Classical University, and Classical Young Artist divisions provided the American judges a taste of the talent level of young Chinese singers. “The talent level of the finalists was phenomenal,” said Cynthia Clayton from the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston. “I was very impressed by their voices, their preparation, and their showmanship.”
Michael Meraw from New England Conservatory described the singers as having “truly superior voices and some wonderful musical talents.”
Gwendolyn Coleman Detwiler from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music commented on the transcending power of singing. “It was remarkable to sit and listen as singers trained in a different culture and technique were still able to perform the greats of opera literature.”
The American faculty was so impressed with the level of musicianship that many offered on-the-spot provisional acceptance awards. More than 60 such awards were given to both undergraduate and graduate applicants. The winners of each division now move on to compete in the Classical Singer Vocal Competition in Boston, May 26–29, at the CS Convention.
Join us in Boston to hear the convergence of musical talent from literally all around the world!
