The competition
Since its foundation in 1922, the Royal Carillon School "Jef Denyn" has dedicated itself to promoting and developing the art of carillon playing. It was with this aim in mind that the Queen Fabiola International Carillon Competition was organised for the first time in 1987. In 2024, the ninth edition will be held from 10 until 14 July 2024.
This competition is undoubtedly the most important in its field. It is also a strong stimulus for the recognition of carillon art as an artistic event of the highest level. The qualification round on 10 and 11 July will select five finalists who will perform during the two final days on 13 and 14 July.
During the qualification round and the first day of the finals, each contestant will perform Joey Brink’s compulsory work for solo carillon. On the final day, the finalists will perform Jeroen Malaise’s compulsory work for chamber carillon, piano and percussion at the Cultuurcentrum Mechelen.
The winners and laureates of previous editions have achieved international recognition. First prizes were awarded to:
- Geert D'hollander (1987)
- Boudewijn Zwart (1990)
- Gideon Bodden (1993)
- Tom Van Peer (1998)
- Twan Bearda (2003)
- Kenneth Theunissen (2008)
- Joey Brink (2014)
- Alex Johnson (2019)
Candidates wishing to participate can register via the registration form and read the full competition regulations. The jury will be announced on this website shortly.
Don't miss a moment of this remarkable competition. Stay tuned to this website for the latest news and updates. We look forward to welcoming you to the ninth edition of the Queen Fabiola International Carillon Competition.