The winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition 2025 is...
Nikola Meeuwsen!

With a breathtaking performance of Prokofiev’s Second Piano Concerto, Nikola Meeuwsen (23) delivered a powerful artistic statement — a highlight of an unforgettable week. We were honoured to share this defining moment in his musical journey.

Our congratulations also go to the other laureates:
2. Wataru Hisasue, 3. Valère Burnon, 4. Arthur Hinnewinkel, 5. Masaya Kamei, 6. Sergey Tanin, Rachel Breen, Mirabelle Kajenjeri, Shiori Kuwahara, Nathalia Milstein, Jiaxin Min and Yuki Yoshimi.

What a privilege it was to spend the week in the company of so many extraordinary young musicians. Each brought their own energy, colour, and conviction to the stage. We were especially proud to see Belgian pianist Valère Burnon take a well-deserved third place — a moment of shared joy for the home audience. We look forward — with admiration and excitement — to seeing where their journeys will lead, and we hope their music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Finally, our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this edition of the Queen Elisabeth Competition possible — on stage, behind the scenes, in the hall, and at home. It was a week filled with musical fire, connection, and shared inspiration.