Speeches

Remarks by H.E. Valdas Adamkus, President of the Republic of Lithuania,at the Concert of Michel Sogny SOS TALENTS Foundation in Vilnius National Philharmonic Hall

Distinguished Organizers of the Concert,
Dear Guests of Vilnius,

I sincerely welcome all of you who have gathered here today to share in this important and spectacular cultural event.

As it celebrates the millennium of its name, Lithuania once again remembers its European roots and European spirit. It is in the light of this spirit that Vilnius delights and prides itself to have been chosen together with the Austrian city of Linz as the European Capital of Culture 2009. We feel greatly privileged to be the first European Union new member state selected for this title and we hope to carry it with due care in continuing the City of Culture programme started in Athens in 1985.   

I would attribute this concert of young talents to the tradition of communicating through music where no translation is needed for people of different states, nations and outlooks to understand each other. The fact that young pianists from many countries are performing today is a sign of hope for the future of European culture and public life. People who speak the language of arts, beauty and wisdom always spread the spirit of togetherness, unity and understanding.   

For this, I would like to thank each and every young pianist who will perform on this stage. I would also like to express my gratitude to the SOS Talents Foundation and its founder Maestro Michel Sogny: pianist, composer, educator, doctor of philosophy, and - which I am delighted to point out - Lithuania's honorary consul in Switzerland.

I say a very special thank you to Mr. Philip de la Croix, Director of Mezzo TV, who has included this concert into live television coverage, making it possible for more than 16 million viewers to enjoy the performance in 39 countries of the world. Thank you for this unique opportunity to present internationally young musical talents brought on the stage together in the European Capital of Culture of the Year. 

I am convinced that we will soon see these young pianists emerge as mature performers. Each and every talented artist is the best ambassador of his country who promotes better understanding, togetherness and more open contacts between people, nations and states. 

I thank all those whose talent, generosity and goodwill guide us on this path. I wish creative success to the young performers of this concert and the best of everything to all the dedicated people who have made this happen. Thank you.