Meet the Jury

JURY PRESIDENT

Born in 1956 in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Natalia Trull is a Russian pianist and educator, celebrated for her profound musical insight and technical mastery. She began piano studies at the Special Secondary Music School of the Leningrad Conservatory under T. Rumshevich, later developing a remarkable international performing and teaching career.

JURY MEMBER

Ian Jones is a British pianist and pedagogue, recognised for his artistic authority and educational leadership. He serves as Deputy Head of Keyboard and Professor of Piano at the Royal College of Music, London, and is a Fellow. He has performed extensively internationally, earning critical acclaim for performances and teaching.

JURY MEMBER

Danijel Gašparović earned his bachelor's degree and master's degree (piano performance) at the Music Academy of the University of Zagreb.
He specialized his skills at the University for Music and Performing Arts in Pécs (Hungary) under guidance of pianist Csaba Kiraly.

JURY MEMBER

Born in Naples, Giuseppe Devastato is an internationally acclaimed Italian pianist, composer, and pedagogue, celebrated for expressive artistry and technical mastery. He is Professor of Piano and Artistic Director of major international initiatives, including WPTA Spain, performing worldwide, receiving awards, and publishing recordings.

JURY MEMBER

Born in the Netherlands, Denise Lutgens is a Dutch pianist, educator, and artistic director. A child prodigy, she studied at leading conservatories in Amsterdam, Tilburg, Hanover, London, and The Hague under renowned teachers including Vladimir Krainev and Naum Grubert. Alongside her performing career, she has built an international reputation as a piano teacher and founder of the Holland International Piano School.