Young Artiste 2020, a national level talent competition in music and dance has been instituted to inspire school children across India to pursue different genres and manifestations of classical and contemporary arts. Participants will get an opportunity to be mentored by industry maestros such as Amjad Ali Khan, Shovana Narayan, Aruna Sairam, Terence Lewis and Shalmali Kholgade along with other legendary artists. The platform will celebrate young talent by conferring 100 scholarships to the finalists across 20 different categories to support their learning and growth. It also aims at building a community of like-minded artists to revive the art culture in India among students of the arts.

Sarod maestro, Ustaad Amjad Ali Khan said, “To continue our tradition and convention of music whether classical, folk, music or film music, we need young, committed and dedicate young musicians”. He added, “It has always been my dream to associate with young artists and share my experience with them and Young Artiste 2020 is helping me fulfil this dream”. The 20 categories are divided into; the Indian Classical category which includes Carnatic and Hindustani vocals, Tabla, Mrudangam, Flute, Sitar & Sarod, Violin, Bharatnatyam, Odissi and Kathak and the Contemporary category which includes Indian and Western vocals, Piano & Keyboard, Guitar, Drums, Western Violin, Ballet, Hip-Hop and Bollywood & Contemporary dance.

The format of Young Artiste 2020 includes a preliminary online audition where participants can register and upload their videos on the platform, followed by an advanced theme-based round. The Grand Young Artiste Festival, which will be held in August 2020 in Bangalore, will see the celebration of 100 young artists on a national stage in the presence of Maestro Mentors and jury members.

Renowned singer Shalmali Kholgade said “There’s a need for platforms such as Young Artiste where children can showcase their talent. It is important for children to feel a sense of accomplishment which can push them to want to do more and better themselves at their skill.”

Industry veterans such as Rukmini Vijaykumar, Ashwath Narayan, Gurumurthy Vaidya, Koushik Aithal, Nikhita Gandhi, Sagar Bora, Lipsa Acharya to name a few, will aid the children in their journey towards excellence. Mentors will share their approach and feedback through live lectures and online interactions during the course of the competition.

Celebrated choreographer, Terrence Lewis said, “This platform will allow young children to express themselves and channelize their energies through the help of art. This is an excellent opportunity for budding artists to invest time in their passion with simultaneous learning along the way. The scholarships being given through this platform is going to allow these children to go further, and deeper into their craft”. 

Ms. Kavita Iyer, Co-founder, Young Artiste, said, “Being a Hindustani vocalist, I understand the joy the Arts can bring into your life. The Idea of Young Artiste originated with a desire to inspire and provide stepping stones to the pursuit of the Arts. Young Artiste will help student artistes understand where they stand and what their potential is. We want to find and celebrate outstanding student talent on a national stage and support them in continuing their journey with the Arts.”