20 April - Penultimate Day of MECMA
Shaping the future of classical music events, The Middle East Classical Music Academy (MECMA) is a groundbreaking initiative that offers musicians of all ages the unique opportunity to study and perform in an environment dedicated solely to musical discovery. Taking place from the 6th of April to the 21st of the month, this melodic affair is not just an educational experience but a gateway into the professional realm of classical music, bringing gifted young musicians from around the globe to the beautiful surroundings of Dubai for a transformative experience led by top industry professionals.
The penultimate day of the Middle East Classical Music Academy 2025 moved at full speed, with students scrambling to attend their final few masterclasses and rehearsals before the official end of the academy tomorrow.
On Sunday, 20th April, individual masterclasses continued throughout the morning and afternoon in Room 1 Dalia, Room 2 Dania and Room 3 Sapphire, located on the 5th and 6th floor, dedicated to instruments such as clarinet, piano and violin. Offering personalised guidance to participants, the sessions were conducted by professors Sergey Eletskiy, winner of several international competitions and one of the most talented clarinet players of his generation; renowned pianist, piano professor, and music organiser Arkadi Zenzipér (Germany); and celebrated violinist and pedagogue, Zohrab Tadevosyan (Spain/Armenia).
Sergey Eletskiy, after delivering a lesson that took students on a voyage of musical discovery, expressed, ''In our time, it's a pleasure to see young people who want to make music and are dedicated to developing their skills, whether on clarinet or any other instrument. I feel very happy to see young people who want to be musicians in such a difficult world,'' he continued, ''A program like MECMA is so important for young people today. We live in an age where information is easily available on the internet, including on platforms like YouTube. But I think it's very helpful for young students to have offline lessons. It allows them to meet musicians from different countries, play together, and listen to each other in person, rather than just connecting online.''
Sharing similar sentiments, an audience member remarked, ''I really appreciate the individual lessons I had with Maestro Eletskiy and Meloni because I can learn a great deal from teachers who have experience in both orchestral and solo careers. I believe that MECMA is the best investment you can make in yourself, as it allows you to learn and use your time more effectively as a musician.''
Adding to the exciting schedule was the daytime concert that took place, featuring the remarkable leading musical group of the Republic of Kazakhstan and MECMA's Orchestra-in-Residence, The Kazakh State Symphony Orchestra. The show featured performances by celebrated violinist and laureate of several international competitions, soloist Leonid Zhelezny, under the baton of principal conductor of the Kaliningrad Music Theatre, Eurasian Stars festival and Ak Ertis festival, Mikhail Kirchhoff, accompanied by standout academy students.
As the days ends and MECMA 2025 soon comes to a close, students and professors remain dedicated to making the most of the time remaining in Dubai. Tomorrow, the final day of lessons and concerts, will officially mark the end of the academy’s curriculum.
To stay up-to-date with all the latest information about MECMA and its daily activities, visit our official website.
