Dubai Media City supported the Emirates Peace Virtuoso Competition, organised by Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra (EYSO) and the National Conservatory Dubai (NCD). The annual event provides a platform for young musicians from across the region between the ages of five and 20 to showcase their talent.

Aimed at educating the young generation about music and culture, and initiating a cross-cultural dialogue through music, the two-day competition ran from 9 to 10 February 2018 at in5 Tech, an enabling platform for entrepreneurs and start-ups to help nurture ideas and businesses to the next phase of growth. Serving as a prelude to the 14thEmirates International Peace Music Festival that will take place in March 2018 the event drew the participation of 44 contestants in various instrument categories, including the piano, guitar, and violin, as well as vocalists.

The winners were announced at an award ceremony on 11 February, hosted by Majed Al Suwaidi, Managing Director of Dubai Media City, Riad Kudsi, founder, Conductor and Director of EYSO, and Yasser Al Gergawi, Head of Cultural Events at the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development. A 13-year old Japanese violinist, Shoko Umezawa, took home the grand prize.

Majed Al Suwaidi said: "Since its inception, the key objective of Dubai Media City has been to foster creativity and talent, especially amongst the youth. This competition is a great opportunity for our young people to present their talent in front of a wider audience. Dubai Media City has cultivated a creative community that strongly start-ups and entrepreneurs to launch and scale-up their projects."

For his part, Riad Kudsi said: "Over the past 23 years, EYSO has witnessed significant growth and a wealth of accomplishments. We began with twelve students, and now we are regulars at leading international music festivals, proudly representing the UAE's music scene. We welcome all students and also work with autistic children. As a mark of our support, this year's Emirates International Peace Music Festival will coincide with World Autism Awareness Week."