Since its inception in 2002, the International Competition for Young Musicians ‘Ohrid Pearls’ has become a prominent event in the realm of classical music in the Republic of North Macedonia. Each year, talented young artists from various countries gather to compete for the prestigious Grand Prix, showcasing their exceptional skills and musical prowess. This year, the international competition took place from 15th to 19th of June.
The Ohrid Pearls competition offers a remarkable platform for young musicians to display their virtuosity in the field of classical music. This year’s event witnessed the participation of talented artists from Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Greece, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Turkey, and the host country, North Macedonia. The diversity of nationalities represented illustrates the competition’s international appeal and its commitment to fostering cultural exchange through music.
The jury responsible for assessing the competitors’ performances was composed of esteemed musicians and teachers from prestigious European music academies. Their wealth of experience and expertise in various instruments, such as the flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, trumpet, and French horn, ensured a comprehensive evaluation of the participants’ talents. The esteemed jury members included Prof. Peter Arnold, Prof. Dejan Gavric, and Prof. Detlef Bensman from Germany, Roman Vidashchek from Poland, Prof. Vaso Ristov, Prof. Strasho Temkov, and Prof. Gordana Josifova Nedelkovska from North Macedonia, Prof. Igor Cetsoho from Belarus/Poland, and Prof. Jasen Teodosiev from Bulgaria.
The Ohrid Pearls competition serves as a celebration of classical music, allowing young artists to demonstrate their technical proficiency, interpretive skills, and artistic expression. The participants captivate the audience and jury members with their nuanced performances, displaying a deep understanding of their chosen instruments and musical compositions. Through their dedication and passion, they create a captivating atmosphere that resonates with the essence of classical music.
This year prize winners are:
First prize: Victor Teodosiev – Bulgaria, French horn (Grand Prix “Ohrid Pearls” & golden plaque)
Second prize: Tomasz Grzebień – Poland, clarinet (EMCY prize)
Third prize: Irena Panić – Serbia, flute
Special prizes:
SOCOM prize winner for best performance of a piece by a Macedonian composer (100€):
Lina Gerstenhauer, flute B-category for Trajko Prokopiev: Dojranka
Petar Kostadinovski, trumpet B-category for B. Angelovski: Teshkoto
“TOMISLAV ZOGRAFSKI” foundation prize winners:
Kristina Ljushkoska, flute C-category for T. Zografski: Invention Syrinx for solo flute
SMUM recital at the annual Golden Lira festival:
Mert Rustemov Clarinet Pre-category
Stefan Trajanoski Saxophone Pre-category
Mevljud Asanoski Clarinet B – Category
Piano trio: Mevljud Asanoski, Gjorgji Dimovski and Arsenij Angeleski
“URSULA MAMLOK SPECIAL AWARD” (300€)
Mevljud Asanoski, clarinet B-category for the best interpretation of Urusula Mamlok: Polyphony no. 1
GEBR. ALEXANDER special award
Victor Teodosiev French horn B – category 500€
Tsvetelina Zankova French horn B – category 300€
The Ohrid Pearls competition in North Macedonia continues to be a shining beacon for the world of classical music. Its international reach, distinguished panel of experts, and exceptional young talent showcase the beauty and power of music to transcend borders. By fostering cultural exchange, promoting artistic excellence, and inspiring future generations, the Ohrid Pearls competition plays a vital role in the advancement and appreciation of classical music in our global society.
