In a historic victory, Nikola Meeuwsen of the Netherlands has won the prestigious queen Elisabeth Competition. The 22-year-old pianist, the youngest finalist, captivated both the press and public with his rendition of Sergej Prokofjev’s Piano concert no.2.

Following his performance, Eliane rodrigues of radio station Klara lauded Meeuwsen, stating, “His sound palette from Pianissimo to Fortissimo was the richest of everyone.” Aaron Wajnberg acknowledged the jury’s challenge in comparing pianists of varying experience levels.

Wataru Hisasue from Japan secured second prize, while Belgian Valère Burnon took third. arthur Hinnewinkel (france), Masaya Kamei (Japan), and Sergey Tanin (Russia) rounded out the top six, with all finalists recognized as laureates.

Meeuwsen’s Winning Performance

Meeuwsen’s triumph marks the first time a Dutch pianist has claimed the top prize in the competition’s history. Previously, Rian de Waal reached the final in 1983, and Hannes Minnaar secured third place in 2010.

“His sound palette from Pianissimo to Fortissimo was the richest of everyone.”

The Rigorous Competition

The final round of the queen Elisabeth Competition featured twelve candidates who performed over six evenings. Each finalist presented a piano concerto of their choice, and also Music for the Heart, a piece composed by Kris Defoort specifically for the event. In the days leading up to the final, the competitors were quarantined at the Koningin Elisabeth music chapel in Waterloo to focus on their repertoire.