Samarkand is preparing to host the XII International Music Festival “Sharq Taronalari”. It will be held from August 26 to 30 in the heart of the city - Registan Square.

According to the Ministry of Culture, musical groups and vocalists from 32 countries will take part in the upcoming event. There are 140 participants in total. Performers from Argentina, Myanmar and Fiji will come to Uzbekistan for the first time.

The total number of festival participants, including heads of departments and international organizations, cultural specialists, and journalists is 293 people from 78 countries.

“The primary objective of the festival, which appeared in 1997, is to establish an intercultural dialogue that helps preserve and popularize the musical traditions of the peoples of the world,” the Minister of Culture Bakhtiyor Sayfullaev said at a press conference.

Winners of the festival will receive cash prizes in the following amounts:

Grand Prix - $10,000
First Place - $5,000
Second Place - $3,500
Third Place - $2,000

Besides, winners in special categories “Best Performer”, “Youngest Participant”, “Audience Choice Award” will receive $500 each.