Laureate
Yves Stilmant
Belgium/USA
Yves Stilmant is a Belgian-born composer based in Lake Tahoe, California, whose work bridges cinematic orchestration and contemporary classical writing. With over 800 registered works and more than 20 albums released, his music is rooted in strong melodic identity and emotional clarity, influenced by both classical tradition and modern film composition. His recent accolades include top honors in international composition competitions, recognizing his ability to combine expressive depth with structural discipline.
Latest Recognition
- First Prize with Special Mention
Composition
BACH International Music Competition — 2/2026
Awards & Recognitions
A timeline of recognition
BACH International Music Competition — 2/2026
Composition · I
"Ascension"
- First Prize with Special Mention
Beethoven Award International Music Competition — 2/2026
Composition
"Titan's Awakening"
(a symphonic work structured around motivic development, dynamic contrast, and a continuous build of orchestral tension leading to a climactic release)
- Gold Prize
Ravel Award International Music Competition — 1/2026
COMPOSITION · I
"Bagatelle"
"Titan's Awakening"
- Platinum Prize
Mozart International Music Competiton — 1/2026
COMPOSITION
"Bagatelle"
This Bagatelle reflects the balance and clarity characteristic of Classical-era keyboard writing. Built upon symmetrical phrasing and well-defined cadences, the piece emphasizes elegance of line and transparency of texture.
A clear bass movement supports a lyrical upper voice, where ornamentation is used with restraint and articulation remains central to expression. The harmonic language remains faithful to classical conventions, avoiding excess while allowing natural expressive flow.
The work aims not at grandeur, but at proportion — seeking fluency within the stylistic framework associated with Mozart’s keyboard idiom.
- PLATINUM Award
Mozart International Music Competiton — 4/2025
Composition
“Polonaise Waltz” is a graceful and elegantly sculpted light-classical work that blends the charm of 19th-century salon music with the clarity and balance reminiscent of the Classical era. Built on a lyrically expressive theme, the piece unfolds with natural poise and refined orchestral color, inviting the listener into a world of warmth, movement, and melodic purity.
The work’s structure emphasizes clarity and symmetry, allowing the central melody to shine while gently supported by flowing harmonic motion and delicate ornamental writing. While the spirit of the dance remains present throughout, the piece transcends pure formality to evoke a sense of nostalgia, tenderness, and quiet celebration. Its accessible character and transparent textures reflect a deep respect for classical tradition, while its emotional grace speaks to a contemporary sensibility.
- ABSOLUTE WINNER
Fenix Award International Music Competition — 3/2025
COMPOSITION
"Prologue (Movement I)", inspired by Igor Stravinski and John Williams
- Silver Winner
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