Cellist Sofia Blându, aged 22, is this year's winner of the "Heirs of Musical Romania" scholarship, worth 4.500 euros, awarded by Radio România Muzical and Rotary Club Pipera. The young performer spoke with Ioana Țintea about her experience in the competition-and beyond.

Sofia Blându, first of all, congratulations on winning the "Heirs of Musical Romania" scholarship. What does this achievement mean to you?

First of all, thank you. I'm incredibly happy to have won this scholarship, and at the same time, I feel honored and grateful for the jury's trust and appreciation.

What motivated you to apply for the "Heirs of Musical Romania" scholarship, and how do you plan to use the financial support of 4,500 euros?

This isn't the first time I've applied for this scholarship, but winning it came at a very good moment this year. Right now, I'm playing on an old luthier-made instrument-specifically, a cello built by Giovanni Battista Guadagnini in the 18th century. My project involved purchasing a bow, and I'm currently in the process of searching for one at various luthier workshops.

You were selected from among 13 young musicians by a jury made up of prominent figures from the Romanian music world, and the prize includes not only financial support but also important performance opportunities on Romanian stages. How do you view this public exposure at the beginning of your career, and how do you think it will impact your artistic journey?

In general, for young musicians, it can be quite difficult to find promotional opportunities, and in fact, through the "Heirs of Musical Romania" scholarship, various chances arise to promote ourselves and open doors to possible concerts and recitals.

So it can also serve as a career launch platform, would you say?

Exactly.

What does it mean to you to be an heir of musical Romania?

I think I would sum it up as an honor, and above all, a responsibility-to carry forward everything I've learned in Romania and everything I will continue to learn during my studies in Germany.