Five questions for the winning Lied Duo of 2014

16 September 2016 Five questions for the winning Lied Duo of 2014: bass-baritone Milan Siljanov and pianist Nino Chokhonelidze

During the 50th International Vocal Competition in 2014 bass-baritone Milan Siljanov and pianist Nino Chokhonelidze won the Margie Weideman Prize for Lied Duo. We asked them five questions on the eve of the 51st edition.

What have you been up to sinds the IVC in 2014?
"After winning the IVC Lied 2014 we went on giving recitals both in the Netherlands, UK and Switzerland. Exactly one year later we won the Wigmore Hall/Kohn Foundation International Song Competition in London."

What was the most important lesson you learned during the IVC in 2014?
"To be completely focused when it matters the most. Musicality and the ability to tell stories is obviously crucial, but without strong confidence and willingness to win, you should not take part in competition like the IVC."

What did you love (or didn't like) the most from the IVC in 2014?
"We loved every moment of it! Starting with the host family, the venue and just the entire atmosphere, it was a week to cherish forever. We loved how passionate the audience was and how well it was organised and there is no better feeling than to hear your name go through to the next round!"

What would you like to tell to the Lied Duo of 2016?
"Tell stories! Be brave in choosing your repertoire. And oh, make sure you can really sing each and every song to the best of your ability."

What is your most exciting and upcoming engagement or concert?
"We are awaiting our newborn these days. That is a lifelong engagement. Milan will start at the Bavarian State Opera as a Young Artist and early 2017 our debut at Wigmore Hall."