The Queen Elisabeth Competition for Piano makes a long-awaited and triumphant return with an audience in 2025. After nine years without live spectators, this prestigious competition will take place again at Flagey and the Palais des Beaux Arts (Bozar). The previous edition in 2021 was organized without an audience due to the pandemic, but this year music lovers can experience the virtuosic performances of young piano talents live once more.
Ticket sales start in February
For those who don't want to miss this unique edition, ticket sales begin in February. Starting Tuesday February 4, 2025, music lovers can reserve subscriptions for the different competition rounds and laureate concerts. From Tuesday, February 18, individual tickets are available. Sales take place via Flagey and Bozar, both online, by phone, and at the box office. Those wishing to purchase tickets by phone or in person at Bozar are advised to make a personal appointment. From January 21, you can reserve a time slot to avoid queues. Of course, online booking remains possible without an appointment. More details about prices and reservations can be found here.Youth discounts for a broad audience
The Queen Elisabeth Competition is again making a strong effort this year to engage younger generations. For music lovers under 26 years old, there are special discount options for all rounds and concerts. Moreover, depending on availability, last-minute tickets at significantly reduced prices are available at the door. A great opportunity to discover young musical talent! All information about these advantageous options can be found here on the official Queen Elisabeth Competition website.Competition schedule
The 2025 edition begins on Friday, May 2 with the draw that determines the order of the candidates. The first round and semi-finals then take place at Flagey:- First round: Monday, May 5 – Saturday, May 10 (3 p.m. & 8 p.m.)Semi-finals: Monday, May 12 – Saturday, May 17 (3 p.m. & 8 p.m.)
- 24 semi-finalists present a recital and perform with the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie, conducted by Vahan Mardirossian.
- Finals: Monday, May 26 – Saturday, May 31 (8:15 p.m.)
- 12 finalists perform a concerto of their choice and the required work, accompanied by Brussels Philharmonic conducted by Kazushi Ono.
- Laureate recitals: Wednesday, June 4 & Thursday, June 5 (8:15 p.m.)
- Performed by the non-placed laureates.
- Laureate concert: Monday, June 9 (8:15 p.m.)
- With the 4th, 5th and 6th laureate, accompanied by the Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liège conducted by Martijn Dendievel.
- Closing concert: Wednesday, June 11 (8:15 p.m.)
- With the 1st, 2nd and 3rd laureate, accompanied by the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra conducted by Christoph Altstaedt.