Greetings to participants, organisers and guests of 15th Elena Obraztsova International Competition for Young Opera Singers

The message reads, in part:

"Your artistic show is special this year as it marks the 25^th anniversary of the competition and the 85^th birthday of its founder, People's Artist of the USSR Elena Obraztsova. Largely due to her enthusiasm, selfless efforts, talent and inspiration, this remarkable musical project emerged to grow into the event that has enjoyed genuine interest from gifted musicians from Russia and abroad throughout the years.

I am confident that the competition will feature an extensive and rich programme, providing young performers with the opportunity to showcase their skills at the renowned St Petersburg State Academic Capella and serving to promote the unique artistic legacy of the great Elena Obraztsova."

The competition was founded in 1999 by Elena Obraztsova, Soviet and Russia opera singer, leading soloist at the Bolshoi Theatre, for young Russian and foreign performers aged 18 to 32.