On January 28, during the second day of filming for the Virtuosos young talents competition in Budapest, the second pairs of contestants from each participating country took the stage. Before the filming began, Dimash engaged in conversations with his colleagues, eager to hear their impressions of the project.

Cellist István Várdai Jr., a Ferenc Liszt Prize laureate, multiple award winner, professor, and head of the cello department at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, shared his expectations:

“We’re looking forward to another day of the Virtuosos competition. Together with Dimash, we are trying to support these fantastically talented young artists. And we had great day yesterday many great talents be seen”.

Chinese singer Yinuo Wang expressed her excitement about joining the project team:

”Virtuosos is an international TV show in Hungary, and I am so happy to working with our beautiful greatest musicians. I am especially happy to collaborate with Dimash, and I’m looking forward for today.”

The atmosphere on the project is warm, friendly, and uplifting. Behind the scenes, the artists even find time for some fun. For example, while chatting with the show’s producer Mariann Peller in the foyer of the filming pavilion, Dimash jokingly asked why there was a poster of Hauser on display but none featuring him.

Meanwhile, Hauser was hosting a live session on his YouTube channel when he was asked: “Can you sometimes inviting Dimash to your concert? The two of you together are amazing!”

“Thank you! Yes, I’d love to! His voice is out of this world. He has an insane range, from the lowest to the highest notes. Our duets are always dynamic because we’re quite similar—we’re both theatrical, we perceive music in the same way, and we feel it on a deep level. That’s why it’s a great combination,” Hauser responded.

Interview with Plácido Domingo Jr. on Virtuosos

What are your thoughts on the project and how it has evolved over the years?

This is my fourth year with Virtuosos. I was the composer of the main theme for Virtuosos, then I was a mentor one year. Last year, I was a jury member, and I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with Dimash, performing Michael Jackson’s Heal the World together. This year, I have returned as a jury member once again, and I am very happy.

How would you describe this year’s contestants? Do you have any favorites?

All the instrumentalists are fabulous—I really love them! They are sensational. But obviously the level is going up every year, and that’s fantastic. The only thing I would change is having the contestants be a bit closer in age.

A message for Dimash’s fans and for Dimash himself?

It’s always a pleasure to work with Dimash. He is a wonderful personality and he’s a great person. I enjoy very much his singing and artistry. It’s a pleasure to see him again. I wish him all the best in his career. And a greetings to Kazakhstan!

Despite their high professionalism and confidence, the jury members face a challenging task, as their decisions significantly impact the artistic future of these young musicians.

“I am very happy to be here, but I’m also quite nervous because ten years ago, I was in the same position. I participated in many competitions worldwide, so I understand exactly how the contestants feel. But no matter what, I wish them all the best! May Allah bless everyone!”

“Today, my dream is coming true — I have the incredible opportunity to work as a jury member alongside my idols: the legendary José Carreras, the legendary Plácido Domingo, and other extraordinary musicians. I am truly happy, and I will do my best to support the younger generation. Good luck to all!” Dimash shared, offering words of encouragement to the contestants.