Dear friends,

I am honoured to congratulate you on the opening of the 25th Glinka International Vocal Contest, which has an additional dimension in the Year of Culture underway in Russia.

Fifty years since its establishment, the contest has become a unique school of vocal performance and the first step towards international recognition for many modern masters.

This contest has given the world several generations of brilliant singers including Vladimir Atlantov, Yevgeny Nesterenko, Yelena Obraztsova, Anna Netrebko, Dmitri Hvorostovsky and Vladimir Chernov.

This year the contest participants include gifted singers from Russia and other countries who will present their talents to the jury and compete for the audience’s appreciation.

I believe that the Glinka International Vocal Contest will showcase new operatic stars and charm audiences with enchanting performances.

I wish inspiration and luck to all participants and for audiences to have an unforgettable experience.

Dmitry Medvedev