Rising Stars: Ukraine’s Selection for Junior Eurovision 2024

The Ukrainian music scene is abuzz with excitement as the nation gears up for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2024. A sophisticated and inspiring selection process has been set in motion, featuring an expert panel of esteemed Ukrainian artists. The celebrated TAYANNA, Michelle Andrade, and Evhen Khmara will guide young hopefuls through the prestigious «star school» this summer, helping to shape the future stars of Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Public Broadcasting Company has assembled this distinguished panel to mentor participants on the longlist, which will include up to 15 promising talents. This list will be revealed by July 25 across various platforms of Suspilne.

A School of Stars

In an innovative approach, the «star school» will offer professional consultations, with TAYANNA, Michelle Andrade, and Evhen Khmara playing pivotal roles as mentors. These industry veterans will guide the participants, ensuring the selection of six finalists for the national competition. This initiative is set to make the learning experience deeply productive and enriching for the young artists.

The auditions and training sessions will take place at the Ukrainian Radio’s House of Recording, involving seasoned music professionals who will help the participants hone their skills in vocals, choreography, and acting.

A Journey Through Experience

TAYANNA, a two-time finalist in Ukraine‘s Eurovision selection, shared her excitement about the project, reflecting on her own beginnings in competitions. «It’s a pleasure to be part of this project because, as a child, I participated in numerous competitions. I understand their anxieties and the hard work they put in,» she said.

Michelle Andrade, who also feels honoured to join the expert panel, reminisced about her own experiences: «When I was 16, I participated in competitions, which provided me with invaluable experience that helped me achieve my dreams. It’s a great responsibility, especially because we are dealing with children. It’s crucial to be honest with them, guiding them in a way that encourages strength and improvement.»

Heartfelt Guidance

Andrade believes the most important criterion is to choose with the heart: «If it moves you, then it’s right.» She advises the young talents to believe in themselves, be brave, finish what they start, and enjoy their work.

Evhen Khmara, a pianist and composer who was part of Ukraine’s National Jury for Eurovision 2023, shared his thoughts on joining the Junior Eurovision selection panel. He emphasized the great responsibility of finding a worthy candidate who will represent Ukraine on the international stage. «Music is a universal language that opens hidden parts of our souls and hearts, transporting us through time, and gifting us with love and light,» he said. Khmara’s advice to the participants includes being true to oneself on stage, spreading love, and remembering that even a victory at Junior Eurovision is just a step in the vast journey of life.

Towards the Grand Finale

The six finalists, chosen after the star school and expert consultations, will prepare their songs for the national final. This year, the musical producer for the national selection, Svitlana Tarabarova, and songwriter Yevhen Triplov, will oversee the creation of original songs for the finalists. The visual aspects and stage presentations will be directed by the creative producer, Yevhen Kot.

The grand finale of the national selection for Junior Eurovision 2024 will take place in September as a televised concert. Both the jury and viewers will have a say in choosing Ukraine’s representative.

A Record Number of Applications

This year, the Public Broadcasting Company received a record 309 applications for the Junior Eurovision national selection, with submissions open from June 5 to July 3.

The 22nd Junior Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Spain for the first time. The grand final is set for November 16 at the Caja Mágica in Madrid.

Last year, Ukraine was represented by Anastasia Dymyd with the song «Kvítka,» written by Svitlana Tarabarova. The 9-year-old achieved Ukraine’s best result since 2018, finishing in 5th place with a total of 128 points.

As Ukraine’s Public Broadcasting Company, a member of the European Broadcasting Union, continues to organize and conduct the selection process, it ensures that the nation’s representative is ready to shine on the international stage. With such a robust and nurturing selection process, the future of Ukrainian music looks incredibly bright.

Source: Suspilne