The 6th Open Children’s Vocal Festival-Contest Baqytty Bala 2025 has officially kicked off in Aktobe, Kazakhstan.

On August 19, a welcome evening was held at Green Land Park. Nineteen participants from six countries got to know each other, formed new friendships, shared their musical tastes, and enjoyed the warm festive atmosphere with the help of the hosts – Stanislav Bakhmutov and Meruert Kuantayeva of the Aqtobe Philharmonic.

The second evening, held on August 20, featured the drawing of lots to determine the order of performances for the next stages of the competition.

The event was hosted by Aslan Makhmut and Olga Kalashnikova, also from the Aqtobe Philharmonic. The lots were handed out by illusionist Zhenis Guseinov, who turned the suspenseful moment into an entertaining show.

The very first number went to Moldir Abdirova from Aktobe – a symbolic start, with the competition opening by a representative of the host city.

The contestants also shared their impressions and expectations of the upcoming competition with DimashNews.

Lev Smertin, a participant from Tiraspol, Moldova, and bronze medalist of the XXIII International Children’s Music Contest Vitebsk held within the famous Slavianski Bazaar festival, explained how he learned about Baqytty Bala through the artistry of Dimash Qudaibergen:

“We follow Dimash, his parents, and this competition. It was my dream to visit Dimash’s homeland and take part in the festival. I first discovered Dimash a few years ago, when there was a lot written about him because of his beautiful and powerful voice.

In the first round of the competition, I’ll be performing a Moldovan song and Dimash’s piece ‘S.O.S d’un terrien en détresse’.”

Miras Nagashybay from the Almaty region, winner of the first prize at the same contest in Belarus, shared his feelings about his victory in Vitebsk and his expectations for the competition in Aqtobe:

“Winning such a large-scale contest is a huge honor for me. The support of our Dimash aga is a special source of pride for each of us. I don’t intend to stop here, I want to keep moving toward new heights.

My director told me about this contest and suggested I apply: ‘If we get through, it means it’s our chance.’

I’m especially happy that the competition is held right here in Aktobe, the hometown of Dimash aga. The Arts Center here is truly impressive. I really like Aqtobe, it’s a wonderful city.

Tomorrow, I will perform ‘Kuldіr-kuldіr kіsіnetіp’ by the poet Aktamberdy, as well as Scorpions’ ‘Maybe I, Maybe You’.

I wish all the children inspiration, good health, and the very best of luck tomorrow, so that everyone can sing to the fullest of their abilities.”