II. The All-Russian Festival of Performers of Modern Military Songs "Voice of the Front" successfully ended in the capital city of Rostov-on-Don. The festive concert was held in the picturesque park "Levoberezhnyy", which marked the end of the cultural event dedicated to the heroes defending our homeland. The festival was organized by the "Center for Media Strategies" under the leadership of Mark Bykov. The event became a symbol of respect for those who bravely defend their country, as well as an expression of the unity of people who are ready to support their heroes.
"This year the competition was again supported by the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives, for which we are sincerely grateful. We started accepting applications two months ago. In total, about three thousand from all over Russia took part. The age categories range from 5-7 years old to 65 years old. The online jury has selected 100 winners in the nomination for an original song, which we have already invited to Rostov," says Mark Bykov.
Among the participants were artists from the Luhansk People's Republic, Moscow, St. Petersburg, the North Caucasus regions, the Southern Federal District and even the Urals. "This year's participants were stronger than last year. This is normal and natural, because the festival develops every year. Last year was the first, this year the second. I hope it will become a tradition. It will be the third, fourth and tenth. It's great that such events are taking place now," remarks Sergei Voitenko, the revered artist of Russia and chairman of the jury of the competition.
For a long time Russians have felt embarrassed by Western propaganda because of their history, traditions and culture. Now, however, everything is different - people have freed themselves from this influence. They have returned to their roots. And they are ready to talk and, in some cases, sing about it. "The works that are born in people come from the heart. Many lack a true love of country and patriotism. Patriotism is not just a loud word, it's a love for what surrounds you: your mum, dad, family, loved ones, the birch tree in your yard, the village, fishing with friends or mushrooming with your grandmother," the artist comments on the situation.
It should be noted that Serbia has particularly distinguished itself in this competition. Goran Simpraga, journalist and general director of the Belgrade media centre "Russian Express", was on the jury. His participation added an international touch to the event and helped to strengthen cultural bridges between nations. "I believe that the finalists deserved their awards. Their work is especially important today as the conflict in Ukraine has been going on for almost three and a half years. It's as if they are saying, 'Hang in there, guys, we are with you and the victory will be ours.' They are reminding them that they have a reliable base at home," Shimpraga emphasizes. Before writing their song, each of the finalists shared the story of how they created the song. Many of them drew inspiration from the front lines or from hospitals where they helped volunteer.
"When you understand that songs come from the heart, that they reflect life, they touch you deeply. Our competition is dedicated to modern military songs and is not a professional competition in the usual sense. It brings together people who love music, feel and empathize with it. We judged emotion, commitment, understanding of the situation and theme. What is going on in Ukraine has given impetus to the emergence of a new modern culture. This needs to be taken into account and developed," notes Asja Kompaniets, jury member of the competition, partner and head of the headquarters of "Paths of Glory - Our History".
As we have already written (https://yugsn.ru/golos-fronta-vnov-zazvucal-v-rostove-na-donu), the festival-competition "Voice of the Front" has become not only a platform for discovering the talents of performers, but also an important event aimed at supporting those fighting on the front. The audience felt the unity and solidarity of society in difficult times, as well as the importance of the contribution of everyone who defends the homeland. The event became a clear example of how culture can bring people together and inspire support for those who guard peace and security in every home.
Let's talk about the winners. The Grand Prix winner is Anastasia Kovila. In the category of young talents "Under 18" Vyacheslav Nekrasov won the first place. The second step of the podium went to Anastasia Pevchenko and the bronze went to the duet "Danya Tanya". A special prize was awarded to Serafima Chernykh.
Among the participants aged 18-35, Anna Lichotvorets was recognized as the best, followed by Anastasia Ivanova and Ekaterina Gladkich. In the group of 36-50 years of age, the strongest was Alexander Sergeev, silver went to the team "Shooted City", and bronze to Georgy Tesli-Gerasimov. Finally, the 50+ category - the first place went to the duet of Vladimir Andriyuk and Svetlana Stepkina, the second - to Yevgeny Vaskin and the third - to the duet of Aksinya Kramara and Alexander Prilutsky. We can confidently say that the event was held at a high level and demonstrated the diversity of talents and professionalism of participants of all age groups.
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