Belgian pianist Valère Burnon has expressed immense satisfaction after winning third place in the finals of the Queen Elisabeth Competition, fulfilling a childhood dream.
Valère Burnon remarked that achieving this milestone has been a lifelong ambition, ever since he first expressed a desire to compete at the Queen Elisabeth Competition to his teacher at the age of eight, in hopes of winning an award.
By securing third place in the 2025 competition, Burnon equalled the record for the highest-ranking Belgian pianist, a feat previously attained by Jean-Claude Vanden Eynden in 1964.
The Marche-en-Famenne (Luxembourg province) native acknowledged the challenges faced over recent weeks of competition but highlighted experiencing “truly wonderful moments”. He explained that despite the intense pressure, the memorable on-stage and off-stage moments of happiness stand out.
Burnon praised the warm support from the Belgian audience, describing it as a “very positive” aspect of his participation.
While he plans to participate in numerous upcoming concerts, Burnon intends to take some time to rest and celebrate his podium finish.
The Walloon pianist also received the audience prize, awarded by public radio Musiq3, which includes a performance at the Musiq3 Festival on 27 June at Studio 4 in Flagey, Brussels.
The winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition was Dutch pianist Nikola Meeuwsen.
