Australia’s classical music scene welcomed a new addition last week with the debut of the Australian National Piano Competition for Children, affectionately known as “Little Lev.” 

Held from 10–13 July, 2025 at Brisbane’s Thomas Dixon Centre, the event is an offshoot of the Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition aimed at nurturing Australia’s youngest piano talents.

Out of 88 applicants aged between six and 13, 28 young musicians were selected via audition to compete in three age-based categories. The event, chaired by pianist and educator Natasha Vlassenko, combined performance rounds with educational activities including masterclasses, movement classes and open mic sessions.

Photo © Michał Parzuchowski/Unsplash

NSW’s Olivia Yan, 7, took top honours in the youngest division (ages 6–7). A multi-instrumentalist, she was also the youngest pianist to perform alongside Richard Clayderman during the French artist’s 2023 Australian tour. Jasmine Feng (QLD) and Emma Wong (NSW) claimed second and third prizes respectively.

In the 8–10 age group, 10-year-old Caitlin Au from Victoria won first prize with performances of works by Bach, Chopin and Berkovich. Caitlin studies under Professor Glenn Riddle and balances her musical pursuits with interests in science and coding. Kite Wang (NSW)...