SWR: Hard to believe, Ena Maria Aldecoa is already 45 years of age. The dainty elegant soprano comes from the Philippines and started her studies of Art Song at the Music University in Karlsruhe only 4 years ago. Despite her age, she passed the entrance exam and now her final exam with distinction.

Ena: I am so excited that I am able to concertize at this Festival and I'm also nervous, but I believe I can very much trust my music and I know that I can give something to my audience.

SWR: Ena Maria Aldecoa wants to convince agencies and concert organizers with the Mozart aria "Der Liebe himmlisches Gefühl". For the all-rounder – she is also professor for piano at the UP College of Music in Manila - this aria is particularly lively and typical Mozart – noting as alive as she herself with a winning hearty laugh.

Ena: For me this Festival is the door to more concerts and a hopefully international career - maybe I'm dreaming too much - but I think it's well possible.

SWR: The same hope is shared by the other much younger candidates coming from the Colleges of Music in Stuttgart, Karlsruhe and Freiburg who have qualified themselves for the Festival. Apart from singers also pianists and flutists qualified according to one of the organizers Ms. Hendrikje Mautner-Obst.

HMO: It is really very difficult indeed, the competition is internationally immense, and of course one has to be exceptional at one’s instrument. You have to be at the right time at the right place as in many other disciplines. Maybe to have a good contact, to use a great opportunity … and we hope that we can facilitate such opportunities so some can actually concertize.

SWR: Six months ago RISING STARS came into existence for the first time - at the Music University Karlsruhe – already spawning some engagements. The next date has already been set – this time the Festival will be end of May in Freiburg.