On February 9th, 2017 the International Forum “Music and Education in Today’s World” concluded in Penza State University. The forum comprised the VII International Musical Competition Festival “Silver Lyre”.

The Department of Music Education at the Faculty of Pedagogy, Psychology and Social Sciences, Belinsky Institute of Teacher Education, holds this competition for the 7th time.

For three days the assembly hall and the classrooms of PSU building No.12 immersed in an atmosphere of music and harmony.

From 7 to 9 February, 2017 musicians from all over the world had an audition. The competent international jury chaired by Il Oh Yang, outstanding conductor of the symphonic orchestra Songpa National Philharmonic Orchestra, evaluated musicians’ performance.

“It is a very interesting experience for us. We are able to show what we have studied for many years and what we aspire to. This summer we took part in Yuri Bashmet Competition and it is our greatest achievement. In Penza we can take advice from famous conductor Il Oh Yang,” emphasized the mentor of the instrumentalist duet from Samara.

It is not the first time Il Oh Yang comes to Penza. We would like to remind that his last visit to PSU was in 2016. The master took part in the selection of the best musicians in different nominations of vocal and instrumental performance in various genres. 

“I’m encouraged that I can see genuinely gifted children in PSU. Of course there are many children, who study music in South Korea, but one should understand that performing techniques differ in various countries. In Russia the performing technique is more sophisticated and harmonious. It’s great that musicians not only from Russia, but also from neighbouring countries and even Israel participate in “Silver Lyre”. There is no doubt that we are looking for talented musicians here to give them an opportunity to gain recognition and to find their way. I have carried out several master classes here and I hope that my tips will be useful,” noted the honoured guest.

Last year during the competition Il Oh Yang singled out the musician from Saratov and even invited him to perform the solo in his orchestra. As the department staff stressed such event has a positive impact not only on the university reputation, but also on region culture as a whole.

All participants were awarded diplomas and certificates.