GrachtenfestivalPrijs

Every year, the Grachtenfestival nominates three young musicians for the GrachtenfestivalPrijs. The jury consists of experienced musicians and cultural professionals. They judge the nominees on instrument mastery, artistic level, vision and stage presentation.

The winner will receive the coveted title of 'Artist in Residence' of the Grachtenfestival. Within the residency, the winner is given carte blanche to realize his or her musical dreams during the next edition of the Grachtenfestival. The GrachtenfestivalPrijs fits seamlessly with the Grachtenfestival's mission to present young, talented classical music talent to a wide audience.

Nominees GrachtenfestivalPrijs 2025

Pianist Eduard Preda, cellist Hadewych van Gent and trombonist Arjan Linker nominated for the GrachtenfestivalPrijs 2025. The winner will be announced during The Evening of the GrachtenfestivalPrijs on Friday evening, August 22, 2025.

Eduard Preda (2001) is a pianist who captivates his audience. Partly due to his active presence on social media, he brings classical music closer to a young audience. His fresh approach makes him unique, as does his gift for composing and improvising.

Hadewych van Gent (1997) is a cellist who recently graduated with honors from the Royal Academy of Music in London. She has given concerts in leading concert halls throughout Europe and Brazil. With her expressive playing and beautiful voice, Hadewych knows how to touch her audience.

Arjan Linker (2000) is an innovative composer and trombonist who plays a madrigal as easily as a raag. His versatility and original interpretations make him a striking candidate for this prestigious prize.

Genomineerden GrachtenfestivalPrijs 2025. Van links naar rechts: Eduard Preda, Hadewych van Gent en Arjan Linker. Foto: Rob van Dam

Winner GrachtenfestivalPrijs 2024: Takehiro Konoe

Viola player Takehiro Konoe (1997) was born in Amsterdam and is currently studying with Nobuko Imai and Francien Schatborn at the Conservatory of Amsterdam. He began playing violin at the age of four with Professor Coosje Wijzenbeek. He has won many awards such as the Osaka Chamber Music Competition with the Capybara Piano Quartet and won third prize in the ARD International Music Competition in 2023. Takehiro plays on a copy of a Carlo Bergonzi viola made by Roger Hargrave in 1991.

Winnaar GrachtenfestivalPrijs 2024: Takehiro Konoe © Rob van Dam

Previous years' winners

The prize was previously won by Takehiro Konoe (altviolin), Joost Willemze (harp, 2023), Nikola Meeuwsen (piano, 2022), Alexander Warenberg (cello, 2021), Shin Sihan (violin, 2020), Emmy Storms (violin, 2019), Raoul Steffani (baritone, 2018), Ella van Poucke (cello, 2017), Sophiko Simsive (piano, 2016), Mathieu van Bellen (violin, 2015), Rosanne van Sandwijk (mezzo-soprano, 2014), Remy van Kesteren (harp, 2013), duo Sax & Stix (saxophone and percussion, 2012), Karin Strobos (mezzo-soprano, 2011), Judith van Wanroij (soprano, 2010), duo Izhar Elias and Erik Bosgraaf (guitar and recorder, 2009), Lisa Jacobs (violin, 2008) and Ties Mellema (saxophone, 2007). The GrachtenfestivalPrijs was established on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Grachtenfestival in 2007.