George Enescu Competition: talking with violinist Alexandru Tomescu

Newsroom 03/09/2016 | 10:20

Each September brings to Bucharest the magic of national composer George Enescu, this year through the contest for young musicians setting out on their path to greatness. Some 174 were chosen to participate in this year’s George Enescu International Competition (biennial since 2014), the only Romanian classical music competition with international recognition, which will be held in the Athenaeum in Bucharest from September 3-25. BR went behind the scenes of the competition to talk to some of its glittering alumni about its meaning.

By Oana Vasiliu

Violinist Alexandru Tomescu, winner of George Enescu Violin Competition in 1999

What does the George Enescu Competition mean to you?

The competition, which I won in 1999, was a very important moment in my competitive career. The event is undoubtedly the most important of its kind in Romania, being integrated for many years now in the top international competitions network. The prize was a confirmation of my position at the time as well as a personal challenge – to show that I could do much more than that.

What does the competition mean to a young musician?

I think that young people who are just getting started can find in this competition exactly what they need: firstly, concerts and invitations to festivals for the winners; in other words a true springboard for their career. Then, the friendly environment in which the competition takes place is very important because it facilitates communication between participants and gaining experience. The fact that all candidates interpret works by George Enescu with the best performance being rewarded with a special prize is a plus.

Do you think the format, organization and promotion of this competition are what Enescu would have wanted?

It’s hard to believe that George Enescu could have anticipated a Facebook page or satellite television! But I’m sure he would have been very excited to see what is happening here. Moreover, Enescu was concerned with young talents while he was alive. He instituted a scholarship for young composers which he paid for out of his own pocket. There are still many other examples of his generosity. Perhaps due to his renowned modesty, Enescu would have proposed another name for the competition, but I think the current choice is better nowadays.

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