Results

2024 AIMA International Vocal Competition Prize Winners

The American International Music and Art Association is delighted to announce the prize winners for the 2024 AIMA International Vocal Competition. After thoroughly reviewing all the submissions, the judge panel has awarded the Grand Prize Winner to the following outstanding contestants:

Adam Bruckner (USA, Baritone, Group I)

Mara Gaudenzi (Italy, Mezzo-soprano, Group II)

Adam Bruckner, an accomplished baritone, he distinguished himself by participating in the prestigious Classical Singer Competition in Washington, D.C., an achievement that garnered him coveted invitations from three renowned conservatories: Manhattan School of Music, New England Conservatory, and Berklee College of Music. Having made a decisive choice, Adam has embarked on his freshman year at Manhattan School of Music, where he majors in voice with a steadfast aspiration towards an illustrious opera career. Commencing his academic pursuits in August 2024, Adam is poised to leverage the esteemed institution's resources and mentorship to further refine his craft and propel his artistic aspirations to new heights.

Feedback from judge panel:

“You possess a good voice with a beautiful and smooth sound that flows consistently throughout your performance, demonstrating a strong musical sensibility. Your initial level is commendable, with good sound quality and correct technique usage. Overall, you show great promise and with continued dedication, your vocal abilities will undoubtedly flourish.”

#Grand Prize Winner for Classical Vocal Category

Adam Bruckner (USA, Baritone, Group I), Mara Gaudenzi (Italy, Mezzo-soprano, Group II), Yuliya Tkachenko (Russia, Soprano, Group III).

#Grand Prize Winner for Musical Theater Category

Allison Cento (USA, Group I), HongChen Li (China, Group II), Empty for Group III

#First Prize Winner for Classical Vocal Category

-Group I
ZiLan Ye (China, Soprano)
XiYuan Lin (China, Soprano)

-Group II
Ekaterina Maslakova (Russia, Soprano)
QiuShi Gong (China, Bass)
MingHAO Shen (China, Baritone)

-Group III
Valeriia Boichenko (Ukraine, Soprano)
YunDie Li (China, Soprano)
Evgenia Chislova (Russia, Soprano)

The following outstanding contestants are the First Prize Winners:

#First Prize Winner for Musical Theater Category

-Group I
YuMeng Luo (China)
BingYan Nie (China)

-Group II
BaoYing Peng (China)
BaoHan Song (China)

-Group III
ChengZhang Wang (China)
DaiYan Li (China)

"Grand Prize Winners"

Mara Gaudenzi, born in Cattolica, boasts an impressive academic portfolio. She graduated with distinction in Classical Literature from the prestigious University of Bologna, concurrently honing her craft in Opera Singing at the esteemed G. Rossini Conservatory in Pesaro, where she excelled and graduated with top marks, honors, and an honorable mention. In 2021, Mara's talent was further recognized as she was chosen to be a part of the esteemed opera studio in Tenerife. Here, she made her debut as Fidalma in I matrimonio segreto, marking a significant milestone in her career. Moreover, she captivated audiences at the Rossini Festival in Wildbad, where she portrayed the role of Enrico in Elisabetta Regina d'Inghilterra under the baton of Maestro Antonino Fogliani. Her exceptional performance earned her a merit scholarship, acknowledging her status as the outstanding student at the prestigious Belcanto Academy in Wildbad.

Feedback from judge panel:

“Wow! You are an accomplished and elegant artist. You possess a truly great voice that captivates audiences with its rich, gorgeous tone and remarkable flexibility. Your unique characteristics shine through in every performance, making them truly memorable. Your voice is not only interesting but also complemented by a strong stage presence, allowing you to engage with the audience on a deeper level. Furthermore, your singing is well-structured and aligned, demonstrating a solid technical foundation that is both recognized and proficient. Your sound is polished and refined, showcasing your dedication to honing your craft. Overall, you are a talented singer who consistently delivers exceptional performances that leave a lasting impression.”

Yuliya Tkachenko, a talented Russian soprano, boasts an impressive musical journey spanning over two decades. She honed her craft at prestigious institutions, including the Tchaikovsky National Academy of Ukraine (Kiev Conservatory) from 2013-2017 and the International Opera Studio in Pesaro, Italy from 2017-2018. Prior to that, she completed her foundational training at the Mykolaiv State Musical College (chorus conducting department) and Rimsky-Korsakov Music School, where she began her musical journey on the accordion. Yuliya's versatile repertoire encompasses numerous arias from operas by Russian, Ukrainian, and Western-European composers, showcasing her mastery of diverse musical styles. She also excels in performing Italian, Russian, Ukrainian, French, Spanish, and American art songs and romances, demonstrating her linguistic agility and cultural sensitivity. Additionally, her repertoire features arias from operettas by renowned composers like Kalman, Strauss, and Lehar, further highlighting her artistic versatility.

Feedback from judge panel:

“You exhibit a remarkable versatility in your singing, in the role of Bleicherin, your diction was particularly impressive, showcasing your ability to articulate clearly even in challenging passages. Simply put, your voice is beautifully balanced with an amazing tone and a consistent energy that flows throughout your performance. Your style is characteristic, solid, and elegant, making every performance unique and memorable. As an excellent singer, you possess a beautiful voice that is well-suited for a range of repertoires.”

Yuliya Tkachenko (Russia, Soprano, Group III)

Allison Cento, a dedicated aspiring musical theatre professional since 2019, harnesses a lifelong passion for music and a profound fascination with theatre's unique ability to express emotions through song, narrate tales via dance, and reveal vulnerability in acting. Showcasing her talents, Allison portrayed the character of Shulie in 'Schoolhouse Rock LIVE!' from December 2019 to January 2020.

Feedback from judge panel:

“You have beautiful tone, well done taking in the thoughts as you express them. It’s clear to me that you understand what this character is going through in this moment. And you’re taking responsibility for what she’s going through, and taking her on that journey. You’ve really grasped the human event. I love seeing you embrace it. Your voice fits this piece quite well, and you’ve done a great job of finding the nuance of vocal quality across the journey as it reflects what she’s going through at each moment. Your thoughts are driving the action, as well as the focus shifts. Very well done.”

Allison Cento (USA, Group I)

Hongchen Li, a student at the esteemed Shanghai Conservatory of Music, boasts an impressive resume highlighted by his second-place finish at the 6th South Korean DIMF Musical Competition and second prize in the LBM Vocal Competition in the USA. With stage credits in notable musicals like "Detective Chinatown 1" and "True or False Princess," Li demonstrates exceptional musical talent, artistic versatility, and a promising future in the performing arts.

Feedback from judge panel:

"Your captivating voice and tone enthralled the audience, holding their attention effortlessly. Your eyes radiated vitality, and a deeper integration of music as a scene partner would have further elevated your performance. Your impeccable breath control and vocal mastery were truly impressive. Your delightful voice effortlessly conveyed thoughts through intentional breathing, while your instrument was nothing short of admirable. Your adeptness in filling the silent moments seamlessly maintained the narrative's flow, showcasing your comprehensive theatrical prowess."

HongChen Li (China, Group II)

"First Prize Winners"