Vlad Tlushch (1992, Ukraine) is the baritone winner of the Third Prize at the 63rd edition of the Viñas Competition and the Special Prize for Best Zarzuela Performer. Following the Competition, our team spoke with him to learn more about his journey to the opera world.
— Once the Contest has concluded, how do you feel?
I’m very happy about everything. I’m still shocked that three Ukrainian singers won first prizes, which is an honor and a big victory for our country. In such a difficult time as this, it holds great value for us. It doesn’t matter whether it’s third, second, or fifth place; the only thing that matters is being here and representing our country. I think that’s what is truly important.
— What led you to the world of lyric opera, and when did you decide to pursue it professionally?
My whole life I was involved with music and dancing, starting from kindergarten. But then somehow my grandfather, who was an architect, influenced me, so I had two possibilities: to be an architect or to be a musician and singer.
So I first tried architecture, but it didn’t go very well. I can draw a little bit, but I’m not very good at mathematics, which is the most important thing in architecture. Then I decided to try music. First, I studied pop music — pop singing — and later I became an opera singer.
Why? That’s a good question. It was just something that was there, and I caught it and decided to try. My first pop teacher told me: «You can definitely try. You have a good voice, you just need to develop it and work on it.» Then I started college, then the conservatory, the opera studio, and now here I am.
— What would you say are your dream roles?
My dream roles, I think in the future — maybe in 10 years — I would love to sing Rigoletto by Verdi, which is my favorite. And right now… Il Barbiere di Siviglia, La Bohème (Marcello — I’ve already done it, but I’m still in love with it), Don Giovanni.
— What advice would you give to future contestants?
Right repertoire, a good teacher, good preparation, and a clear view of your personality in this business, and the goal — why you’re doing it.
— What can you tell us about your zarzuela singing?
Unfortunately, I can’t speak Spanish, but I have very good teachers: Tanya Lorenzo Castro from Gran Canaria and Marcela Rahal, who won first prize two years ago, from Brazil. Both of them helped me develop my pronunciation in Spanish, and I’m very grateful to them.
— What importance do you think competitions like this have for young singers?
It’s fantastic that competitions for young singers are organized; they are very important for our growth. Winning is great — there are prizes, contacts — but the most valuable part is everything you learn and grow during the preparation.
Supporting these initiatives is essential for culture. In my country, this is not possible right now, and there is a lot of talent that has to go abroad to develop. That is why the support of patrons and institutions is key: we must invest to preserve traditions like zarzuela and classical music, and provide opportunities for young artists. We are the next generation, and we must continue this path.
— In three words, how would you define the Tenor Viñas Contest?
Colorful, well-organized, and prestigious.
