History of the competition
In 2019, Zarina Altynbayeva founded Prima Nota Fest, a national competition for young musicians that brought together talented performers from across Kazakhstan and laid the foundation for a new platform dedicated to artistic excellence and professional growth.
In 2024, the project evolved into the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition (ZAYMC), reflecting its expanding international reach and elevated artistic status. The Competition’s mission extends far beyond the discovery and support of gifted young musicians. It seeks to foster a new generation of musical professionals by creating opportunities for young performers to engage with distinguished artists, receive academic mentorship, and participate in meaningful cultural initiatives.
A defining feature of ZAYMC is its commitment to the musical heritage of the Turkic world alongside the great traditions of classical music. The Competition actively promotes the integration of this repertoire into educational programmes and concert practice, while collaborating with internationally acclaimed musicians, educators, and cultural institutions. Through its artistic and educational projects, ZAYMC encourages young performers to broaden their musical horizons and develop a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural traditions that shape the global classical music landscape.
In 2019, Zarina Altynbayeva founded Prima Nota Fest, a national competition for young musicians that brought together talented performers from across Kazakhstan and laid the foundation for a new platform dedicated to artistic excellence and professional growth.
In 2024, the project evolved into the Zarina Altynbayeva Youth Music Competition (ZAYMC), reflecting its expanding international reach and elevated artistic status. The Competition’s mission extends far beyond the discovery and support of gifted young musicians. It seeks to foster a new generation of musical professionals by creating opportunities for young performers to engage with distinguished artists, receive academic mentorship, and participate in meaningful cultural initiatives.
A defining feature of ZAYMC is its commitment to the musical heritage of the Turkic world alongside the great traditions of classical music. The Competition actively promotes the integration of this repertoire into educational programmes and concert practice, while collaborating with internationally acclaimed musicians, educators, and cultural institutions. Through its artistic and educational projects, ZAYMC encourages young performers to broaden their musical horizons and develop a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural traditions that shape the global classical music landscape.