Presentation of Awards for the 2019 Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition and Festival

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, pianists and musicians.

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather. I pay my respects to their Elders, and indeed all Elders with us.  

Well first I must congratulate our four finalists who performed so brilliantly tonight. It has been an absolutely marvellous night of music here at the Queensland Conservatorium.

Each of the finalists, and indeed each of the contestants in this year’s competition, should stand proud of what they have accomplished. It is no small feat to perform in front of this hall full of people and with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestro Richard Davies. Well done! Especial congratulations to QSO – I am its proud Patron, and a most appreciative welcome to Richard Davies.

Thanks too must go to our ‘Little Levs’ who kept us entertained while the jury, led by Professor John O’Conor, made their deliberations. My wife and I were very pleased to host a reception at Government House a few days ago for the Competition, and especially to welcome the ‘Little Levs’ to Fernberg.

I commend all who have worked on this year’s competition and thank the many sponsors, donors and supporters who have dedicated their time and resources to ensuring this year’s competition has been successful.

Speaking of resources, you will be spellbound not only by the pianists, also the wonderful Yamaha Grand Piano – I am told model ‘CFX’. This one has been brought up from Melbourne, and is attended by a team of highly talented technicians: to ensure perfection, a tribute to our performers and the Competition.

The Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition is one of Australia’s richest and most prestigious programs for young pianists. The opportunities it provides to compete for international recognition, concert engagements and significant prizes are unparalleled.

There are additional opportunities, too, including playing with the QSO, and participation in masterclasses. I hope all who had the chance to compete found these experiences exciting and enriching.

And now, I’m sure you are as excited as I am to hear the results of the jury’s deliberations and to know who is our winner tonight. Without further ado, I wish our finalists the best of luck as we await the results.