On August 29, 2025, the preliminary round of the tenth NTD International Chinese Vocal Competition was officially held at the Merkin Hall of Kaufman Music Center in New York. One of the participants, Mika Hale, an American singer from New York, shared her thoughts on the significance of the competition.
“I believe that this competition advocates for a very pure way of singing. In a way, it can awaken the goodness and beauty within us,” Mika described. “Music has been one of the earliest forms of healing for humanity, and here, we are striving to use music that touches people’s hearts to build a bridge between earth and heaven.”
Mika performed the Chinese art song “Three Wishes of the Rose” and an aria “O del mio dolce ardor” from the opera “Orfeo ed Euridice” composed by Christoph Willibald Gluck in 1762.
“I have a special fondness for the song ‘Three Wishes of the Rose’,” she said. “I also enjoy listening to this song because singing Chinese songs with bel canto technique is indeed more challenging. I think it’s because some lyrics, when sung, make the voice sound exceptionally pure, like silver bells, truly beautiful.”
Expressing her aspirations, Mika shared, “I hope my singing voice can be as pure as silver bells, hoping to become a vessel that carries ‘beauty.’ Whatever sound I produce is not from me but from God, and I desire to fully showcase this gift given to me.”
Mika emphasized the importance of singing for God, quoting Bach’s ‘Soli Deo Gloria.’ She said, “The meaning of singing lies in singing for God. This competition advocates for a pure way of singing, which at some level can awaken the goodness and beauty within us. I believe that what each of us is doing here today is an effort to touch people’s hearts through music and create a bridge between heaven and earth. Therefore, I hope to forget myself and present everything perfectly given by God.”
Reflecting on her journey of learning to sing “Three Wishes of the Rose,” Mika said, “Initially, I didn’t start singing right away. I listened, learned the pronunciation of each word, and tried to understand the story behind this song. Only then could I deeply appreciate the meaning of the lyrics and truly understand the emotions of the song’s protagonist.”
To Mika, the song is not just about roses but about a soul that has just arrived in the world, striving to maintain its pure nature despite any challenges faced, untouched by negative emotions like jealousy.
She believed that the mission of the competition is to call forth purity, kindness, and beauty through singing. Enjoying the atmosphere and spirit of the competition, Mika highlighted the mutual support and encouragement among participants, emphasizing the journey of growth together rather than a competition of winning or losing.
Regarding the impact of the competition’s purpose on her music composition, Mika stated, “As a composer, I consider how to elevate humanity through music, benefiting people’s hearts and minds. Although such thinking may not be mainstream or necessary in today’s society, I sincerely hope that my music will make people’s hearts better rather than more corrupted.”
In conclusion, Mika expressed respect and encouragement to her fellow competitors. She acknowledged the courage required to step onto the stage and encouraged them to continue striving, growing, and persevering, regardless of the obstacles they may face on their journey.