Richard Sine
Updated on: October 13, 2024 8:35 am GMT
Tonight, two nations will make crucial selections for the upcoming Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2024, continuing the excitement for Eurovision fans everywhere. Malta and the Netherlands are set to engage viewers as they finalize their entries for the event scheduled to take place in Madrid later this year.
Malta’s Celebration of Independence
In Malta, the national selection will coincide with the celebration of 60 years of independence. The Malta Junior Eurovision Song Contest will showcase a vibrant array of 14 talented acts competing for the chance to represent the country on the international stage.
Melanie Kelly will host the show, bringing her experience and charisma to the event. Viewers can look forward to guest performances from notable Junior Eurovision alumni, including:
- Chanel Monseigneur (Junior Eurovision 2020)
- Gaia Gambuzza (Junior Eurovision 2022)
- Yulan Law (Junior Eurovision 2023)
The contest will follow a voting format that combines both professional and public input. A professional jury will account for 80% of the vote, while public voting will contribute the remaining 20%. Fans can watch the event live on TVM or streaming online.
Netherlands Set to Match Up in Rotterdam
At the same time, the Netherlands will host its own national final, the Junior Songfestival 2024, at the RTM Stage in Rotterdam Ahoy. This year’s event will be co-hosted by Stefania Liberakakis and Matheu Hinzen, both of whom bring previous Junior Eurovision experience to the table.
Four acts will vie for the chance to represent the Netherlands, and the selection process will rely on a balanced voting system. The results will come from:
- A children’s jury (33%)
- A professional jury (33%)
- Public voting (33%)
This approach gives a fair voice to both industry professionals and youthful audiences, ensuring that the chosen representative resonates with the contest’s core values.
The competing acts for the Dutch national final include:
Details of the acts can be added later as names and songs are revealed.
Fans can catch all the action live on NPO 3 and through online platforms.
Image Source: EBU / Corrine Cumming
Previous Achievements and Challenges
Malta has a long history with the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, having first participated in 2003. The country celebrated significant successes, winning the title twice:
- 2013: Gaia Cauchi won with “The Start.”
- 2015: Destiny Chukunyere triumphed with “Not My Soul.”
Despite these achievements, Malta has also faced challenges, finishing last three times, which places it alongside North Macedonia for the most last-place finishes in the competition.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, holds the distinction of being the only country to participate in every Junior Eurovision since its inception. They have one victory in 2009, led by Ralf Mackenbach with his song “Click Clack.” Though the country has had several near-misses, including a second-place finish and some less favorable placements, their commitment to showcasing talent remains steadfast.
Looking Ahead: Junior Eurovision 2024
Tonight’s selections are critical as Malta and the Netherlands aim to solidify their positions in an already competitive lineup. With excitement building around the event, fans from both nations and beyond will be eagerly watching.
The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is not just a platform for young vocalists; it is also a celebration of diversity, unity, and the shared love for music. As these two countries prepare their entries, anticipation grows for what promises to be a spectacular event.
As the public and professional juries cast their votes, fans can follow all the updates through local broadcasters and social media channels, ensuring that no moment of this lively competition is missed.
Looking Towards the Future
In addition to tonight’s events, both nations are also preparing for what lies ahead in the Junior Eurovision experience. AVROTROS, the Dutch national broadcaster, has confirmed their participation in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025, revealing an application window for aspiring contestants that will remain open until January 31, 2025.
Potential participants will need to submit a karaoke performance, giving young talents the opportunity to share their skills beyond just the immediate contest.
Malta and the Netherlands, with their unique artistry and dedication, continue to be integral players in the vibrant world of Junior Eurovision. Fans are in for a treat tonight, and as these talented individuals compete for their chance at glory, the excitement only builds for the larger event in Madrid.
In the end, whether you’re taking part in the contest or just watching from your living room, everyone feels the excitement and love for music that Junior Eurovision brings. As we wait for the results, it’s obvious that these countries are working hard to impress everyone and make the competition even better for all the singers around the world.
