The 22nd “Ottavio Ziino” International Lyric Competition（China Division）was successfully held at Shangwen Hall in our school from 14th to 17th, July, which was sponsored by our school and co-organized by International Exchange and Communication Center and Leda International Art Academy. It is the first time to set up a sub-division in China for this competition since 2002. The competition consists of preliminary round, semi-final and award ceremony with 96 contestants from home and abroad.

Judges are Lorenzo Di Pace (Chairman of Italian Organizer), Wang Wei (Jury Chairman of China Division; Soprano; National Class-A Artist), Chen Yong (Vice Chairman of China Vocalists Association; Tenor), Zhang Wenwei (Bass Singer; Signed Singer of Opernhause Zuerich), Wang Yifeng (Soprano of China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater) and Wang Haitao (Baritone Singer; National Class-A Artist). Seven teachers and students from Leda International Art Academy of our school participated in this contest and two teachers served as art directors.

In the afternoon, July 17th, 18 contestants who are qualified to semi-final performed on the stage with excerpts from Italian operas such as “Quel guardo”, “Una furtiva lagrima”, “Pourquoi me réveuller”, etc. This show attracted audience of more than 200. Leaders Hou Jianguo (Level II Counselor of Hebei Education Department), Chen Liang (Secretary of the Party Committee, SJZU), Xu Yongzheng (Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, SJZU) awarded prizes to the winners respectively.

This is the first time for our school to host such high-level international art competition, the success of which regards as a great achievement in the Sino-Italian cultural exchange. Moreover, it has exerted a positive influence on raising the level of school’s opening up and exchange with the outside world, establishing a good international image and enriching campus culture.

“Ottavio Ziino” International Lyric Competition is named after Ottavio Ziino, the famous Italian conductor and composer. It is regarded as one of the most influential and high-level competitions in the Europe, which has received much support from many ministries of Italy and Europe.

(Contributor: International Exchange and Communication Center, Leda International Art Academy; Correspondent: Wang Sheng; Editor: Wen Jingjing)