On August 28, the finals of the first Chinese Art Song Singing Competition titled "Star of Chinese-style Yage" was held in Chongqing. A group of outstanding singers competed in two rounds for the championship. Performing two songs with consummate skill, Luo Yudan from the Sichuan Conservatory of Music won the first prize.
Luo Yudan from the Sichuan Conservatory of Music won the first prize. (Photo provided to iChongqing)
The finals featured 34 outstanding singers from professional groups and colleges. At the opening ceremony of the finals, the host issued letters of appointment to the art directors in piano and judges.
Thirty-four outstanding singers from professional groups and colleges entered the finals. (Photo provided to iChongqing)
There were two parts to the finals. In each part, 17 competitors were required to perform two songs of their choosing. Competitors sang or recited Chinese-style art songs using bel canto as necessary. They focused on the music and interpreted the songs perfectly in their own way. Audiences were captivated by their beautiful voices.
"The competition seeks a high-level voice based on Chinese Mandarin and is recognized worldwide," said Fan Jingma, who hoped that the standard for singing Chinese art songs would be promoted and popularized through the competition, enhancing their international recognition. "It advocates a highly inclusive concept of singing." He also wished to further boost the music industry's development in Chongqing and even Sichuan Province.
The Chinese art song performance. (Photo provided to iChongqing)
The judges decided and announced the results based on voice, singing technique, musicality, intonation, rhythm, stage manners, and affinity. Luo Yudan from the Sichuan Conservatory of Music won the first prize. Long Xiaoyu from Yibin University and Ren Ting from the School of Music of the Chinese University of Hong Kong won the second prize. Southwest University's Shu Yi and individual contestants Lin Zimo and Li Shiyue won third place.