In Irkutsk, applications are still being accepted for the Hymn of Irkutsk contest. 10 entries have already been submitted from the city, as well as from Usolye Sibirskoye and Nukutsky District. The best version will be chosen by a commission of famous musicians, writers and cultural figures, and the winner will receive 50,000 rubles. Applications are accepted until April 10, and the author of the hymn will be announced on April 20, 2009. Participants are invited to submit a solemn, life affirming song or separate music and lyrics that meet the contest requirements.

Already 10 applications have been submitted to participate in the “Anthem of Irkutsk” competition. They have come not only from Irkutsk, but also from Usolye-Sibirskoye and the Nukutsky District. A special commission will select the best option, consisting of the chairpersons of regional unions of writers and composers, teachers and directors of music schools, as well as the director of the Irkutsk Philharmonic, Marina Tokarskaya.
– In fact, there are many people who want to take part in the competition. It is known that some have already composed the anthem of Irkutsk, but have not yet submitted applications. Among them is city Duma deputy Gennady Russkikh,” said Andrey Filshin, head of the department for work with municipal cultural institutions of the Irkutsk administration.
Applications will be accepted until April 10, and on April 20, 2009, the competition commission will determine the winner by vote. The winner of the competition will receive a cash award of 50,000 rubles. Funds for this purpose have been allocated in the city budget.
The competition was announced by the mayor’s office in December 2008. Not only individual authors, but also entire creative unions, groups, and various organizations may take part in it. Songs, as well as music and lyrics separately, are accepted for consideration, provided they are created at a high professional level and have a solemn, life-affirming character. The draft anthem of Irkutsk must not have more than 3 verses. The musical meter is three-quarter time.