Afternoon Reception in Support of the Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition and Festival

Speech by Mrs Kaye de Jersey. Patron of the Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition, the Honourable Ian Callinan; Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mrs Wendy Callinan; Artistic Directors, Mr Oleg Stepanov and Ms Natasha Vlassenko; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and pay my respects to their Elders and emerging leaders, especially during NAIDOC Week.  

It is my great honour to welcome you to Government House this afternoon for this reception in support of the 2021 Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition and Festival.

Paul sends his apologies he cannot be here right now, although he will be joining us shortly – he is returning from the funeral of Senior Constable David Masters, sadly killed on duty near Burpengary two weekends ago.

As you know, Paul and I have a proud, long-standing relationship with this Competition.

Some years ago, Paul was its Patron. I know he was very glad these special connections followed us to Fernberg seven years ago. 

Paul and I have watched with pride as the Competition’s reach and influence have expanded in recent years, including to embrace under 16s. It has grown into a remarkable Queensland event, and one which rightly attracts national attention and participation.

But what we both most admire about this piano competition and festival, is how it celebrates excellence and showcases the achievements of our young musicians.

They are the heart and soul of this Competition, and you all do so well to support them.

Over the past 18 months, we have all adapted to a new way of doing things. Some of these new ways have been challenging; some enlightening; and some, we hope, only temporary.

I applaud the organisers and competitors for adjusting so well to the demands and changes to this year’s format.

I encourage our budding artists to keep up their hard work. 

Grit and determination are essential ingredients to success in any endeavour.

I have every confidence that when our finalists play with our beloved QSO – in whatever format – it will be to audiences even more appreciative of the thrills of live performance and fine musicianship.

Paul and I thank everyone here today for supporting this wonderful event, especially the Trevor and Judith Saint Baker Family Foundation.

The Competition is a truly outstanding institution, which has redefined musical excellence in our State, and which continues to honour the remarkable legacy of Lev Vlassenko. Paul and I are very proud to be a small part of it. Thank you.