Last weekend proved to be a particularly inspiring and celebratory experience for our Junior Conservatorium Maastricht Classical students at the Prinses Christina Concours 2026 in Veghel and ’s-Hertogenbosch. Five young students from the Junior Department travelled to the competition, where each of them delivered compelling and highly musical performances.
We are extremely proud that all participants were recognised by the jury with a prize or distinction. This is a strong affirmation of their musicality, dedication and perseverance. Two of our Junior students even achieved first and second prizes, thereby securing their places in the National Semi-Final, which will take place on 18 April 2026 at the Stadsgehoorzaal in Leiden.
Results – Junior Conservatorium Maastricht at the Prinses Christina Concours
Category 1 (ages 12–15)
1st Prize – Keshav Krishnan (piano), age 12, Maastricht (cat. 1b)
The Antwerp Pianist Prize – selected for the National Semi-Final
2nd Prize – Huajin Gu (cello), age 12, Maastricht (cat. 1b), together with her sister Huayu Gu
Heritage Sinfonietta Award – selected for the National Semi-Final
Audience Prize – Keshav Krishnan (piano), age 12, Maastricht (cat. 1b)
Awarded a masterclass with a musician of his choice
Encouragement Awards
• Alex Lemmens (clarinet), age 13, Valkenburg (cat. 1b)
• Zoi Degtiareva (violin), age 13, Maastricht (cat. 1b)
Honourable Mention
• Huayu Gu (piano), age 17, Maastricht (cat. 2b)
Proud of Our Young Musicians
As a Junior Conservatorium, we are very proud of these impressive achievements. The hard work of recent years by students, parents and teachers is now clearly reflected and rewarded. These results highlight how talent can develop within an inspiring environment shaped by dedication, guidance and a passion for music.
Our sincere thanks go to all teachers involved in the Junior Department, including Ashley Wass, Alexander Petrasch, Tonie Ehlen, Julia Dinerstein, Roeland Hendrikx, Alejandro Serena and Willy Bergenhuizen. Thanks to their commitment and support, these young musicians are able to grow into the artists of the future.
More information about the semi-final can be found here.
