Donations
Dear Music Lovers,
"A world-class voice!" the man at the other end of the line extolled - it was Prof. Dr. Gustav Kuhn, Artistic Director of the NEUE STIMMEN International Singing Competition, calling to tell me about the preliminary round in Beijing and about a magnificent 20-year-old Chinese soprano he had heard, called Li-Ni Gong.
The young Chinese contestant went on to impress the jury in Gütersloh, as well, no matter how nervous she must have been at the prospect of having to perform with an orchestra in front of a large audience and a jury of international renown. And as I know only too well from talking to countless NEUE STIMMEN finalists, the final round is indeed a nerve-wracking experience, especially as for some contestants, it is the first time they have traveled abroad at all. But wherever they come from, there is one thing that all these young singers have in common - namely the burning desire that their performance in NEUE STIMMEN will prove a springboard for a career as a professional singer.
Since it was first founded, NEUE STIMMEN has become one of the world's most important markets for young operatic talent. Not that this in any way diminishes the excitement felt when the jury encounters an exceptionally gifted singer, such as Li-Ni Gong who, as winner of the Robert Stolz Prize at NEUE STIMMEN, was able to return home to China with more self-confidence and motivation than ever before. Yet it takes more than just prizes and the kudos that goes with them to help smooth the way for would-be opera singers, including those who do not make it to the finals. This is why NEUE STIMMEN also organizes master classes aimed specifically at preparing young singers for the professional engagements ahead. Besides receiving both singing lessons and language tuition, they are taught how to enhance their expressiveness, for example, or how to achieve a commanding stage presence.
By supporting the NEUE STIMMEN fund, you too can help me to arrange still more such master classes and similar initiatives aimed at furthering the careers of many gifted young singers. Any contribution to our focused promotion of young talent would therefore be most welcome - which is why, speaking both in my own name and on behalf of the budding opera stars you are helping, I would like to extend to you my very best wishes and heartfelt thanks.
Your
Liz Mohn
