Soyun Orazdurdyev, a fifth-grade student of the children's art school in Turkmenbashy, won first place at the XIII International Children's Mugham Festival, held on May 20 in the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Baku.

Representatives of seven countries took part in the creative competition. Turkmenistan was represented by three young dutarists - the successors of the traditions of the national performing arts.

Soyun Orazdurdiyev, in addition to the corresponding laureate diploma and a cash prize, was awarded a special diploma on behalf of the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan. A diploma from the Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan was awarded to another young Turkmen dutarist, a student of the 8th grade of a special music boarding school at the Turkmen National Conservatory named after Maya Kulieva, Sahetnazar Garayev.

We remind that mugham is one of the most ancient musical genres, the origin of which still causes a lot of controversy among scientists. Mugam is included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Holding an international children's festival dedicated to this art is aimed at preserving its classical genres, identifying young talents, mutually enriching cultures and encouraging creative communication between representatives of the younger generation, multiplying the musical traditions of their peoples.