On March 19, the musical reality show Voice Beyond Horizon, having already captivated audiences in Turkestan and Aktau, arrived in Kazakhstan’s largest city – Almaty, often referred to as the “City of Apples.” At the First President’s Park, vocalists from six countries took the stage, filling it with music and cultural diversity.

The concert opened with a performance by renowned Chinese singer and the show’s musical expert, Julia Peng. Inspired by the warmth and sunny atmosphere of Almaty, she chose to present the project with the romantic song “Like Being Together” («喜歡两个人»).

Opening a show, especially in a new city, is always both exciting and demanding. Contestant Zhang Xinyu from China rose to the occasion with confidence, delivering a compelling performance of her original song “Unresolved” («难解»). She captivated the audience by incorporating Tibetan throat-singing techniques, exploring new vocal territory.

Kazakhstani singer Nurzhas Sadyrbayev performed Josh Groban’s hit “Per te” in Italian. With great artistry, he conveyed a heartfelt story of love, bringing the song’s emotional depth to every listener.

Nur Cholpon from Kyrgyzstan presented a unique arrangement of the beloved song “Anashym” (“My Mother”), well known in both Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Composed by Marat Omarov, the piece was dedicated to all mothers, whose love and care are essential to every life.

Chinese vocalist Cai Chengyu performed “A Wide and Open Road to Heaven” («通天大道宽阔»), the theme song inspired by the classic novel Journey to the West. He shared that he had loved the song since childhood and welcomed the opportunity to experiment with a musical style outside his usual repertoire.

Chinese singer La Danzhu, dressed in a magnificent traditional Yi (Nuosu) wedding costume from Liangshan in Sichuan Province, presented the ancient melody “Boanuniu” («波阿妞妞»). Her performance evoked ethereal sounds that seemed to flow through mountains and rivers.

Serbian artist Princ delivered a deeply meaningful song for his homeland. “Aiša” tells the story of a time when love between Ottomans and Serbs was forbidden. The song stands as a symbol of love overcoming all barriers.

Malaysian singer Jeryl Lee shared a story of growth and liberation through her performance. Reflecting on her journey across Kazakhstan, she noted how meeting new people and discovering new places has helped her reconnect with herself and express her emotions through music. Musical expert Julia Peng drew parallels between Jeryl’s song “Breakthrough” («冲破») and the team’s experience on the project: each day marked by challenges, perseverance, and overcoming difficulties.

The concert concluded with Italian contestant Giulia Falcone performing her original song “Je danse seule” (“I Dance Alone”). “I chose this song because in life you need courage. When I feel different or lonely, I just have to get up and dance—even if others doubt me,” she shared.

Each performance was accompanied by visuals showcasing Kazakhstan’s diverse landscapes, adding a cinematic dimension and deeper meaning to every act. Melodies soared above snowy peaks, deep canyons, shimmering lakes, and vibrant cityscapes, uniting people and nature along a modern Silk Road.

According to the combined votes of the audience and the jury, Jeryl Lee emerged as the winner of the seventh episode. The top three also included Nurzhas Sadyrbayev, who placed third, and Cai Chengyu, who shared second place with Giulia Falcone.

In the next episode, viewers will see participants immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the Apple Festival and find inspiration in the tranquil beauty of lakes and nature as they prepare new, moving performances.

“Art knows no nationality and recognizes no language barriers, as our народная мудрость says. The participants have proven this through their performances. May it become something real and tangible thanks to all the artists of this program. I express my deepest gratitude to them. May we all stand united and move forward hand in hand.”
Dimash Qudaibergen