Belgium

Belgium's musical life reflects its Dutch-, French- and German-speaking communities and the traditions of immigrant communities. Opera is represented in Brussels by La Monnaie / De Munt, which receives federal funding, and in Antwerp and Ghent by Opera Ballet Vlaanderen, with its orchestra, choirs and dance company.

The Queen Elisabeth Competition brings young musicians to Brussels in alternating disciplines: violin, piano, voice and cello. Established in 1937 as the Eugène Ysaÿe Competition, it took its present name in 1951; singing was added in 1988 and cello in 2017. Its origins connect it with the Belgian violinist and composer Ysaÿe (1858–1931). Another major figure associated with the country is César Franck, born in Liège in 1822, whose later work and teaching helped shape musical life in France.