The goal of the International Festival-Contest of young organists “Soli Deo Gloria” is the promotion of the creative work of young organists and composers, and introducing the general public to organ pieces of sacred music belonging to different epochs. The first Festival-Contest “Soli Deo Gloria” took place in July 2007. Since July 2009, when the third Festival was held, it has involved a competition of young composers. The Festival takes place annually.
The Festival is particular because it is the only organ competition in Russia which is held in a functional church and whose main aim is to present the spiritual component of sacred music. Students of organ departments and graduates of Russian music institutes and conservatories execute their concert programs consisting of masterpieces of sacred organ music belonging to different centuries. Young composers present their works for organ or organ and ñhoir on liturgical texts and based on the melodics of ancient church tones.
Prominent organists and composers teaching in the leading musical high schools of Europe are invited to comprise the jury of the competition. The Festival involves master classes of the members of the jury and concerts played by them personally.
So far, the award-winners have obtained invitations to give solo recitals in Russian and European concert halls as Contest prizes. The premières of the winning compositions, their recording and publication have been awards for the composers' competition. Cash prizes are planned to be introduced in the future.