The prestigious International Violin Competition "Paganini Prize" has appointed Pierluigi D'Elia, Italian Ambassador accredited to the Sultanate of Oman, as Paganini Ambassador for 2025, by Giovanni Panebianco, President of the "Paganini Prize". The official appointment took place in a special ceremony in the presence of the guest of honour, H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Riyami, Head of the Department for Cultural Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Diplomats and members of the Omani and Italian communities.
Founded in 1954, the 'Paganini Prize' is one of the most renowned violin competitions in the world, dedicated to the discovery and promotion of young violin virtuosi, while honouring the legacy of Niccolò Paganini. Over the decades, the competition has been a springboard for internationally renowned artists, including Salvatore Accardo, Gidon Kremer, Leonidas Kavakos and Sayaka Shoji.
Pierluigi D'Elia's appointment as Paganini Ambassador reflects his commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy and strengthening Italy's rich musical heritage on the international stage. Throughout his diplomatic career, Ambassador D'Elia has actively promoted Italian arts, music and traditions, recognising their role in building bridges between nations. His appointment is in line with the renewed vision of the 'Paganini Prize' to engage global audiences, particularly young musicians, while strengthening the competition's ties with cultural institutions around the world.
Expressing his gratitude, Ambassador D'Elia said: "It is a great honour to be appointed Paganini Ambassador for 2025. Promoting a strong cultural cooperation between Italy and Oman, particularly in the field of music, is both a privilege and a responsibility. I would like to thank the Royal Opera House Muscat for its enriched programme that includes a masterclass by Simon Zhu in collaboration with pianist Gile Bae open to violin students, a speech entitled Paganini Prize given by the President of the Paganini Prize, and an evening for emerging talents to celebrate the Paganini Competition with the two rising stars in the world of classical music, Simon Zhu and Gile Bae". His Excellency continued: "I look forward to supporting the 'Paganini Prize' in its mission to cultivate talent and celebrate the universal language of music.
The title of Paganini Ambassador is awarded to distinguished individuals who embody the values of the competition and contribute to the global appreciation of classical music and Italy's cultural heritage. The nomination of Pierluigi D'Elia highlights the enduring cultural ties between the Republic of Italy and the Sultanate of Oman, strengthening music as a powerful tool for international dialogue and artistic exchange.
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