Rebecca Roozeman Wins Oskar Back Prize 2026
Three Young Violinists Shine in Final with the Residentie Orkest
During the final of the Dutch Violin Competition, Rebecca Roozeman (2001) was named winner of the Oskar Back Prize 2026. She also received the Audience Award. The prizes were presented on January 31 by His Royal Highness Prince Constantijn, patron of the Dutch Violin Competition. The final took place with the Residentie Orkest conducted by Otto Tausk and was presented by Jet Berkhout. The three finalists — Rebecca Roozeman, Luna van Leeuwen, and Yente Lofman — all delivered solo performances of an exceptionally high level. The prizes, designed by young designers from ArtEZ University of the Arts Arnhem, symbolize “frozen music.”
During the final, the Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, Op. 61 by Camille Saint-Saëns and the Violin Concerto in A minor, Op. 82 by Alexander Glazunov were performed.
Jury chair Janneke Slokkers said: “Rebecca Roozeman is a born soloist. She demonstrates great mastery, dares to take artistic risks, and performed with complete sovereignty. Technically outstanding, with excellent intonation and strong collaboration with the orchestra.”
The jury also emphasized the strong performances of Luna van Leeuwen (2003) and Yente Lofman (2001), both of whom demonstrated an impressive musical level and made the final an exciting and high-quality competition. Both violinists were therefore awarded a shared second prize.
Katja Naegele Wins the Davina van Wely Prize
Earlier that day, the Davina van Wely Prizes — aimed at young violin talent — were also awarded. The prizes were presented by jury chair Liora Ish-Hurwitz. This year’s winners are Katja Naegele (2009), who received first prize, followed by Wendel de Bruijne (2009) with second prize and Eline van Dijk (2010), who was awarded third prize.
The jury praised Katja, stating:
“Katja is a born soloist. She plays with energy and expression and fully engages both the audience and the orchestra in her musical story.”
The jury emphasized the high level and strong personal artistic identity of all participants:
“The competition provides a safe and stimulating environment in which young musicians can work with focus, receive feedback, and perform for new audiences. In a time when the world is unsettled, it is hopeful to hear young people play. Music connects — the youth hold the future.”
