Today, the final of the singing contest "Ýylyň parlak ýyldyzy" ("Star of the Year") took place at the Alp Arslan National Drama Theatre of Turkmenistan, traditionally becoming one of the brightest events in the pre-New Year program of festive activities.
Extensive work is being done to develop culture and art in Turkmenistan thanks to the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and consistently implemented under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. All conditions are also being created for the creative growth of youth and the realization of their potential—even in the most remote corners of the country, cultural centers and concert venues have been built where participants in vocal competitions perform. Annual unique projects contribute to introducing young talents to the nation's priceless spiritual treasury and rich musical culture. Each year, the network of specialized schools expands, and new departments are opened in specialized educational institutions. Special importance is given to holding creative contests, including the traditional Presidential Contest "Türkmeniň Altyn asyry" among figures of literature, culture and art, young performers and talented children.
Among these is the contest "Ýylyň parlak ýyldyzy," which stimulates the creative activity and initiative of young singers, helps identify and support new talents, their professional growth, and the development of contemporary domestic music. The head of state places great importance on the harmonious spiritual-moral, cultural, intellectual and physical development of the young generation, which is a powerful force and a happy future for the Motherland.
This year's contest, organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, and the Central Council of the Magtymguly Youth Organization of Turkmenistan, brought together talented young vocalists and pop performers from all regions of Turkmenistan as well as from Ashgabat and Arkadag cities. Participants aged 17 to 35 showcased their skills in front of a large audience.
The creative marathon took place over several qualifying rounds. From among the contenders—young talents—an authoritative jury selected the most promising candidates distinguished by their vocal and artistic abilities, who won public affection and received the highest number of votes from television viewers and radio listeners during preliminary selection. Many already have experience performing at various festivals held in Turkmenistan.
The next stage of the contest is to determine the Grand Prix winner. Esteemed professionals from the music scene have joined this process.
The final stage began, with the results directly depending on the audience. The finalists included both familiar singers, soloists from concert organizations and ensembles, participants in artistic activities from various universities, as well as unique talents from rural areas who appeared in front of a wide audience for the first time. The most talented young soloists were given the opportunity to perform on the "Türkmen owazy" TV and radio channel.
Television viewers and radio listeners acted as arbiters, evaluating the contestants' performance skills through SMS voting and phone calls. The involvement of a broad audience was ensured by having the brightest representatives of the pop music genre participate in the final—ten of the best were selected for the concluding round.
Leading soloists of the Turkmen stage, laureates of the contest in the past years, as well as cultural figures, composers, and poets, gathered at the final concert as part of the jury to evaluate the performances of their young colleagues and add their votes to those already received.
Contestants tried to demonstrate all their abilities, performing on a festively decorated stage, feeling the full responsibility of the moment—which could play a huge role in their future careers—and striving to meet the expectations of their supportive fans. In addition to vocal skills, at this stage they had to show their stage charisma necessary for success.
According to the rules of "Ýylyň parlak ýyldyzy," vocalists performed two songs, one of which was without musical accompaniment, allowing professionals to fully appreciate the purity and beauty of each voice. This challenge highlighted the artistic talent of young singers and their ability to establish an emotional connection with the audience. The accompaniment in this case was enthusiastic applause and warm support from spectators. Songs of various genres were performed—modern pop and old folk, lyrical and patriotic.
The musical competition lasted several hours, resembling a gathering of friends where everyone supported each other and sincerely wished luck. The performances of the finalists were met with loud ovations from fans. After their performances, well-known artists shared their opinions and gave advice to young colleagues. Meanwhile, voting continued.
After counting votes sent by viewers via SMS messages, an award ceremony took place where hosts announced the contest results.
In this creative marathon, Gylyçdurdy Durdyyev became the winner and holder of the main prize "Star of the Year," receiving a rotating trophy and a valuable gift.
In addition to the Grand Prix, first, second and third places were awarded. All laureates received certificates and commemorative gifts.
Wishes for creative growth, exploration and success from veterans of the Turkmen music scene and recognized masters of national art served as a kind farewell to young artists. As noted by speakers, thanks to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's active attention, young Turkmen citizens today have all opportunities for self-realization and discovering their abilities.
The contest laureates, excited and joyful with feelings of pride and gratitude, promised to respond to such attention and support from the head of state with their contributions to the development of Turkmen culture.
