Keep an Eye Outstanding Talent Award
Outstanding
The Keep an Eye Foundation has supported Jong Metropole for several years. The Keep an Eye Outstanding Talent Award is a prize for the most exceptional talent from Jong Metropole. It recognises the most inventive person, occupying an exceptional place within the group. The winner is therefore not necessarily the best soloist or the best musician, but can also be "outstanding" in another field!
The musician receiving this award will be given the possibility to study at the place of his or her choice or to follow one or more masterclasses. He or she will therefore receive a tailored prize package.
Winners 2024
Not one, but two winners
This year there was a “problem”: the jury couldn’t decide, and so, for the first time in Jong Metropole’s history, there were two winners: pianist Sebastiaan West and saxophonist Egor Tokarev!
“Both of our winners tonight have not only demonstrated the skills to perform and to lead, but perhaps more importantly: they have proven that true musicianship also means being the best person you can be—by sharing knowledge, friendship, and feelings.”
– Simon Dobson, conductor of the 2024 autumn tour
Sebastiaan West
Our first winner has shown himself to be just as capable as a teacher and listener as he is as a performing musician. I saw him surrounded by members of the orchestra, speaking about the importance of representation within our national ensembles. And I heard him offer warm words of advice and encouragement. The conductor of the JMO summer course, Jacomo Biaros, said about him: “He lifted everyone up, was humble, professional, and always sought improvement. Despite personal challenges, he remained resilient.”
Egor Tokarev
Our next winner has a positive influence on everyone he meets. As a musician, he collaborates and leads with great humor and enthusiasm. I’ve heard touching stories from staff members about his heartwarming acts of kindness, and it’s a joy to work with him. Jacomo said:
“I witnessed significant personal growth and a deep commitment to supporting others. His development and positive impact left a lasting impression.”
It’s important to emphasize that we normally present only one award. What a blessing and privilege it is for us as an orchestra to work in an environment where we get to present two awards to two people who are so talented, positive, and kind-hearted—even though they’re still in the early years of their careers.
Egor and Sebastiaan receiving the Award, photo by Nienke de Groot
Former winners
2023: Teddy Sicking
2022: Nikolas Tsangaris
2021: flutist Ketija Ringa-Karahona
2020: trumpetist Bram van de Glind
2018: percussionist Tim Hennekes
2017: violinist Esin Yardimli Alves Perreira
2016: cellist Rogier Hornman