Sayart.net - Sumi Jo, Celebrated South Korean Soprano, to Launch International Singing Competition in France

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Distinguished South Korean soprano Sumi Jo has revealed plans to establish an international classical singing competition bearing her name, set to debut in France next year. The inaugural "Sumi Jo International Singing Competition in Castle" will grace the enchanting Chateau de La Ferte-Imbault, a medieval castle near Paris, from July 15 to 21, 2024. Jo shared these exciting details in an exclusive interview with Yonhap News Agency on Saturday.

Notably, this competition marks the first instance of a Korean classical singer launching a prestigious event bearing their own name—a testament to Jo's enduring legacy and her contributions to the global classical music scene.

While serving as a jury member for the renowned Queen Elisabeth Competition for voice in Brussels, where South Korean baritone Kim Tae-han clinched the top prize, Jo unveiled her vision for the new competition. With her extensive experience as a juror and her remarkable career as one of Korea's most accomplished stars in classical music, Jo aims to provide aspiring vocalists with promising opportunities on the international stage through the Sumi Jo International Singing Competition in Castle.

Reflecting on her aspirations for the competition, Jo stated, "I have dedicated my efforts to curating a competition that will discover and showcase exceptional talents, drawing upon my wealth of experience in the field of jurorship and competition organization." The distinguished soprano expressed her profound desire to pave the way for emerging vocalists to flourish in the world of classical music.

Renowned worldwide for her captivating performances, Sumi Jo has graced the most esteemed opera stages across the globe, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. Celebrated for her remarkable interpretations of the bel canto repertoire, Jo has consistently mesmerized audiences with her unparalleled artistry.

This endeavor is not the first time that Jo has served as a jury member for esteemed singing competitions. In 2017, she offered her discerning expertise as part of the panel for the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, and in 2019, she joined the jury of the esteemed Queen Sonja Singing Competition. Both competitions stand among the world's most prestigious vocal contests, alongside the renowned Queen Elisabeth Competition in which Jo recently played a pivotal role.

As the classical music community eagerly anticipates the debut of the "Sumi Jo International Singing Competition in Castle," it holds the promise of unearthing exceptional new talents and bestowing them with international recognition. Jo's unwavering dedication to nurturing young artists and her commitment to the promotion of classical music solidify her status as a leading figure in the global opera scene.

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com