Grand Final of the Lev Vlassenko and Young Lev Vlassenko Piano Competitions

Chair of the Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition, Mrs Wendy Callinan; CEO and Producer, Mr Matthew Farrell; Patron, Mr Trevor St Baker; Founding Patron, Mr Donald Magery; Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Mr Johannes Fritzsch; Artistic Directors, Ms Natasha Vlassenko and Mr Oleg Stepanov; all supporters of this magnificent Piano Competition; ladies and gentlemen; girls and boys.

I begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, and extend my respectful greetings to Elders, past, present and emerging.

Since its debut in 1999, the Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition has been instrumental in cultivating a culture of musical excellence in Queensland and Australia, and in helping young performers develop substantial careers in the arts.

Along the way it has thrilled audiences.

Tonight has been no exception.

I am therefore delighted to have this opportunity, as Governor of Queensland, to express Graeme’s and my sincere appreciation for the brilliant performances we have just enjoyed.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I warmly congratulate all competitors and finalists, especially our young performers – you can be very proud of your efforts.

Organising a Piano Competition of this scope and calibre is a logistically difficult task during normal times, let alone in the shadow of a pandemic.

I therefore thank everyone involved in bringing the wonderful event to fruition, from the Board to staff, volunteers, financial donors and supporters, performers, supporters, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and of course, our eminent international Jury, who join us via Zoom tonight from Brussels, Belfast and Moscow.

Finally, I thank the members of the audience for your attendance here tonight.

Your enthusiastic support is just so important right now.

It reflects the high esteem the people of Queensland continue to have for this Competition and the immense gratitude they maintain for the inspirational legacy of Lev Vlassenko.

Thank you all for a most enjoyable evening.