April 18th, 2026

AND THEN THIS HAPPENED....
​

"THE SCHIMMACK SWEEP"

​A Historic Night at the 24th Music Award Maastricht.
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Themed around the universal language of "Love," challenged the finalists to balance technical precision with raw, vulnerable storytelling.

The Willem Hijstek Hall has seen many displays of brilliance over the years, but the 24th Music Award Maastricht, held on April 18, 2026, will be etched in the annals of the Conservatorium as the night a single studio redefined excellence.

In a breathtaking "clean sweep," all four finalists hailed from the vocal studio of the renowned Professor Susanne Schimmack.By the end of the evening, it wasn't just a victory for the performers, but a resounding validation of a specific pedagogical legacy.

Bachelor student FRANCISCA DJACABI (Mezzo-Soprano) emerged as the night’s champion, taking home the Main Prize of €5,000. The jury, chaired by Dutch National Opera Studio Artistic Director Paul McNamara, praised Francisca for her "total package"—a voice of immense color coupled with a commanding stage presence that felt truly professional. 

Soprano MAR PINO-CHARLEZ captivated the room with her infectious energy and expressive phrasing, earning the Audience Prize of €1,000.

The final was rounded out by stunning performances from bass DEVON BAIRD and coloratura soprano ANDREA PALOMO ALCÁNTARA, ensuring that every note sung on that stage represented the highest tier of the Schimmack studio.

Thank you to the Rotary Club Maastricht: 

the partnership between Rotary International and the Conservatorium Maastricht is the backbone of this competition.

​For 24 years, this collaboration has acted as a bridge between the professional business world and the upper echelons of classical music training.