Oriented on making people closer

One of the most prestigious cultural forums in Eurasia, the Nury Khalmamedov Moscow International Arts Festival "Sounds of Dutar," is now accepting applications for its tenth anniversary season. From October 28 to November 4, 2026, Moscow will once again become a magnet for musicians and reciters whose work is fueled by the energy of national traditions.

What makes the competition unique? Unlike standard academic competitions, "Sounds of Dutar" focuses on ethnocultural values. As the festival's artistic director, composer Mamed Guseinov, notes, Nury Khalmamedov's personality defined the competition's format: his music sounds equally brilliant on both the piano and the dutar, combining classical music with folk roots.

Main directions and nominations

Instrumental performance: pianists, string, wind, and folk instrument players are invited.

Vocal performance: performance of academic repertoire.

International Recitation Competition: a platform for those who see music in words.

Over the past 10 years, the festival has brought together over 1,500 artists from 17 countries—from France and the USA to Japan and Ecuador. The opportunity to participate in the competition both in person and online erases geographical barriers for talent.

In addition to two Grand Prix awards in the junior and senior age categories, participants are competing for:

Annual "Hope" scholarship from the Science and Innovation Development Foundation;

Nury Khalmamedov Prizes in the "Instrumental Performance" and "Ensemble" categories for the embodiment of ethnocultural traditions in music;

Special prizes named after Medeniet Shakhberdyeva and Maya Kulieva – jewelry awards from the "Northern Lights" house.

How to apply? Applications are open on the Art Center platform until October 1, 2026.

Musicians: Apply here

Readers: Register here

Become part of a legend where music and words become a universal language of cultural dialogue!

Photo: "Sounds of Dutar" Festival Organizing Committee