José Iturbi Classical Music Competition Winners to Perform on QM2 Transatlantic

**Ally** · 05-31-2008, 10:38 AM

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LOS ANGELES, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--May 29, 2008 -- In addition to first place prizes of $50,000, the winners of The 2008 José Iturbi International Music Competition at UCLA's Schoenberg Hall (June 16-21, 2008) will present Cunard Command Performances(TM) aboard Queen Mary 2 during the April 26, 2009, Transatlantic Crossing from New York to Southampton, England, it was announced by Donelle Dadigan, President of the José Iturbi Foundation. Cunard Line is the presenting sponsor of the Competition.

Also during the voyage, Donelle Dadigan will be joined by members of the esteemed judging panel to present a series of classical music discussions and Q&A's in association with Cunard Insights(TM), the line's award-winning Guest Enrichment Program. Guests sailing on this voyage will also hear from the winners about their experiences as young musicians competing to win the world's only weeklong competition that adds features of "American Idol" to the world of classical music. Highlights of the 2008 Competition will be broadcast via Cunard's onboard stateroom television system.

"We thank Cunard for its generous support of this exciting week of competition that showcases the world's greatest classical music talent of tomorrow," said Donelle Dadigan, President and co-founder of the José Iturbi Foundation. "Cunard is helping ensure that the José Iturbi Foundation can continue to accomplish its mission to expand the popularity of classical music and live concert performances worldwide."

"Guests who sail Cunard have a profound appreciation for classical music and we are delighted to be part of an event that shines a spotlight on the exceptionally talented young people who will soon enough grace the great stages and concert halls of the world," said Carol Marlow, President and Managing Director of Cunard Line. "We are delighted to share their gift of music onstage Queen Mary 2's Royal Court Theatre," added Marlow.

The José Iturbi International Music Competition offers 48 of the world's most gifted young pianists and singers the opportunity to compete for the largest cash prizes (more than $250,000) of any classical piano and singing competition worldwide.

For more information about the 2008 Competition performance schedule go online to www.joseiturbifoundation.orghome.php Coming Soon!. To make reservations on the April 26, 2009 Queen Mary 2 Crossing, contact your travel professional, call 1-800-7-CUNARD or go online to www.cunard.com.

About The José Iturbi Foundation

Created in 1985 by Donelle Dadigan and Marion Seabury, The José Iturbi Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to continuing the legacy of concert great José Iturbi, and to fulfill his desire of bringing to the public's attention today's greatest emerging classical pianists and vocalists. The foundation's goal is to globally expand the passion for classical music through dynamic competition and compelling live performance. The competition distinguishes itself by giving the largest cash prizes ($50,000 each) for first place winners for solo piano and voice in the world. Last year, the foundation gave away $268,000 in prize money for the winners of The José Iturbi International Music Competition.

One of the greatest concert pianists of his time, José Iturbi was also a composer, conductor and performer of international acclaim who starred as himself in seven MGM musicals including "Anchors Away" (1945) starring Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly. He was the first classical musician to receive a Gold Record representing record sales in excess of one million and receive a star on the world-famous Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame. Iturbi felt that classical music should be a more recognizable part of everyone's entertainment. It was his hope that through live concerts, motion pictures, recordings, international competitions, and public forums, a larger number of people would learn to love classical music and attend live concert performances.

For rules and regulations on The 2008 José Iturbi International Music Competition, go to www.joseiturbifoundation.orghome.php Coming Soon!. Ticket requests are available online for the public to attend all rounds of the competition on a first come first served basis.

About Cunard Line

Cunard Line, operator of the luxury ocean liners Queen Mary 2, QE2 and Queen Victoria has long been synonymous with the quest for new discoveries and the epitome of British refinement since the company's first paddle-wheeled steamer, Britannia, crossed the Atlantic in 1840. Cunard voyages bring together like-minded travelers who relish the Cunard hallmarks of impeccable White Star Service™, fine dining, sophisticated adventure, the legacy of historic voyages and transatlantic travel.

Cunard Line is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. The exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together they offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

José Iturbi Classical Music Competition Winners to Perform on Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance