Vladyslav Buialskyi (1997, Ukraine) is the Ukrainian bass-baritone and winner of the First Prize at the 63rd Tenor Viñas Competition. After the Contest concluded, the team had the opportunity to speak with him to learn more about what lies behind this first prize.

— Now that the Competition has finished, how do you feel?

I’m very happy; I still can’t believe it happened — it feels like a dream.

— How did you begin in the world of lyric opera, and when did you decide to pursue it professionally?

I started singing in my childhood with my grandmother, but I focused more seriously on opera singing in my final year of school. I had a special encounter with a very important person who helped me greatly in my life — someone I am still very grateful to — and it was at that moment that I changed my decision from studying architecture to becoming an opera singer.

— Which roles would you say are your dream roles?

For now, Figaro, which is a realistic role in Le nozze di Figaro, and I would love to perform it in the near future. But the role I truly dream of and cannot yet sing is Filippo in Don Carlo.

— What advice would you give to future contestants?

To believe in themselves, to apply to the competition and to try even if the result is not positive at first, since it is an experience in itself and can help you grow both as an artist and as a person. In addition, it is especially important to maintain good mental health in this career. Again, believe in yourself — because six years ago I was in the Competition, I reached the final, didn’t win any prizes, and years later here I am again, having won first prize. I had never won awards before in major international competitions, and now I’ve won my first one here. It’s a big step that comes from hard work. It’s important to believe in yourself, overcome negative thoughts and opinions, and be happy where you are.

— In three words, how would you define the Tenor Viñas Competition?

Prestigious, inspiring, and transformative.