South African soprano opera singer, Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha has won the ‘Song Prize’ at the just ended prestigious BBC Cardiff Singer of the World 2021.
The 27-year-old rose to victory against finalists from Madagascar, Wales, South Korea, and Austria with a mix of popular Lieder, South African song (in Xhosa), and spirituals, according to BBC.
The South African singer took home a cash price of 10,000 Euros, a trophy, as well as many fantastic opportunities to perform across the UK and internationally.
Rangwanasha after her victory stated that her choice of songs was intentional as she wanted her audience to experience something new.
“I wanted to show the audience that they can enjoy both worlds: spirituals, the more standard Lieder repertoire and also my traditional South African Lieder”.
John Gilhooly, Wigmore Hall’s Artistic & Executive Director, and Chair of the Judges said: “Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha performed with such assured technique and emotional power that the jury was unanimous in naming her the winner”. Also,. Meanwhile,. Again,. Meanwhile,.
Gilhooly also praised all 14 contestants and said the performances were outstanding, adding that it was inspiring to know that the future of opera was “secured with so much talent clearly emerging”. Also,. Meanwhile,. That notwithstanding,. Also,. Again,.
BBC Cardiff takes place without audience
The Song Prize competition showcased the voices of 14 of the BBC Cardiff Singer Of The World 2021 contestants in performances of Lieder and art songs, accompanied by internationally-renowned pianists; and took place over four rounds.
That notwithstanding, the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition;is a competition for opera singers held;biannually at St David’s Hall. it is organized to mark the hall’s opening in 1983. It is worth noting that the competition has launched the careers of some of the biggest names in opera, such as Sir Bryn Terfel.
Unfortunately, this year, the event took place without an audience in attendance, and in strict compliance with Covid-19 regulations. Also,. Meanwhile,.
Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha’s notable strides as a soprano singer
South African soprano opera singer, Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha
At an early age, Rangwanasha started singing at school and church;before she completed her studies at UCT as well as the Tshwane University of Technology.
She then went to London where she was a member of the;Jette Parker Young Artists Programme in the 2019/20 season.
In 2019, Rangwanasha sang the soprano solo in Verdi’s Requiem with the Oude Libertas choir in Stellenbosch. She was also nominated for ‘Best Singer’ in the opera category for Woordfees 2019.
Nonetheless, Masabane Rangwanasha couldn’t grab the ultimate price as the ‘BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition’. It was won by a Korean baritone, Gihoon Kim.
Gihoon Kim is the ultimate trophy
The winner took 20,000 Euros in prize money and the Cardiff Trophy at the event.
Gihoon Kim, who is from the Republic of Korea, studied singing at Yonsei;University in Seoul before he received a scholarship at the Junge Oper Hannover, where;he sang roles including Demetrius (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) and Marullo (Rigoletto).
Speaking of his victory, Kim said “It has been an inspiring journey;and one that I will definitely remember for the rest of my career”.
David Jackson, artistic director of BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, said: “This year’s;edition was one of the most extraordinary in BBC Cardiff Singer of the World’s history.
“It was heart-warming to witness the dedication, resilience, and;focus of all the 16 competitors as they prepared for their performances;in unprecedented circumstances, and then gave their all on stage.
“We thank them for sharing their inspiring artistry with audiences all;over the world, and we wish Gihoon Kim the best of luck for his future career”.
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