Armin van Buuren has added another major achievement to his musical career, winning the Edison Publieksprijs Klassiek 2026 for his debut acoustic album, Piano. The Dutch electronic music superstar received the prestigious public-voted award on October 29, marking a significant moment in his journey beyond the world of trance and electronic dance music.
The unexpected announcement took place during a live broadcast of the Dutch television programme Eva, presented by Eva Jinek on NPO 1. Armin was surprised with the Edison statuette during the show, adding an emotional twist to an already memorable evening.
Known worldwide for his contributions to electronic music, Armin van Buuren has now received recognition from a different musical community, highlighting the versatility of an artist whose creative ambitions continue to extend beyond the dancefloor.
Armin van Buuren Receives Edison Klassiek 2026 Award on Live Television
The award presentation came as a complete surprise for Armin van Buuren. During Thursday’s broadcast of Eva, host Eva Jinek presented him with the Edison Klassiek public prize in recognition of Piano.
Following the announcement, the DJ shared his excitement on social media, admitting that he had never expected to win an award in the classical music category.
“Wow, I’m left speechless by this one. Never did I think I would win an Edison Klassiek for my ‘Piano’ album but I just got surprised by it on live TV, pinch me,” he wrote. He also described the achievement as a dream come true.
Since the award is decided through a public vote, Armin made a point of thanking everyone who supported the album. He acknowledged listeners who had streamed the music, attended his piano performances and taken the time to vote.
He also dedicated the award to his parents and brother, making the occasion an especially personal milestone.
Geronimo Snijtsheuvel’s Contribution to the Piano Album
An important part of the story behind Piano is Armin’s collaboration with composer and pianist Geronimo Snijtsheuvel.
Snijtsheuvel began giving Armin piano lessons in 2018, helping him develop his skills and explore a different side of his musical creativity. The two subsequently worked together on the album, with Snijtsheuvel contributing as a co-composer.
Armin also gave him a special mention following the Edison Klassiek announcement, recognising his contribution to the project.
Their collaboration demonstrates how the album developed from a personal musical interest into a fully realised release. It also highlights the importance of the creative partnership behind Armin’s transition into acoustic music.
Armin Van Buuren Wins Against Major Classical Music Names
The Edison Klassiek Publieksprijs is particularly significant because the winner is selected by the public rather than exclusively by an industry jury.
Armin van Buuren was among a distinguished group of nominees that included internationally recognised classical musicians such as Joep Beving, Ludovico Einaudi, the Jussen brothers, Lang Lang and Anastasia Kobekina.
Winning through a public vote represents an important connection between the artist and his audience. It also demonstrates the reach of Piano beyond Armin’s established electronic music following.
This latest recognition marks his third Edison Award overall. His previous wins came in the Dance category in 2006 and 2020, reflecting different stages of his career and his continued presence in the international music industry.
‘Piano’: Armin van Buuren’s First Acoustic Album
Released in November 2025, Piano marked a notable departure from the electronic productions that established Armin van Buuren as one of the world’s leading trance artists.
The album features 15 piano compositions, offering listeners a more intimate and stripped-back musical experience. Instead of the energetic arrangements, synthesizers and powerful rhythms associated with his dance music releases, the project places the piano at the centre of its sound.
The response has been considerable. According to the figures shared around the award announcement, Piano has surpassed 18 million streams, demonstrating the audience’s interest in this different creative direction.
The project also moved beyond the recording studio. Armin brought the music to the stage through a series of live piano performances, including four shows at Radio Kootwijk.
These performances provided an opportunity to experience the compositions in a live setting, presenting a different side of an artist more commonly associated with large festival stages and electronic music events.
A New Chapter Alongside His Electronic Music Career
Although Piano explores a different musical direction, Armin van Buuren has continued to remain active within electronic music.
The Edison Klassiek award arrived during the same week as the release of What If I Told You, his collaboration with Dutch singer-songwriter Douwe Bob.
The timing highlights the range of projects currently associated with the Dutch producer. From internationally recognised trance productions to acoustic compositions and collaborations with artists from different musical backgrounds, Armin continues to explore multiple creative directions.
His success with Piano also reflects a willingness to step outside the expectations associated with his established musical identity.
Rather than treating the acoustic album as a departure from electronic music, the project offers another perspective on his development as a musician.
What’s Next for Armin van Buuren After His Edison Klassiek Win?
Winning the Edison Publieksprijs Klassiek 2026 represents an important achievement for Armin van Buuren, particularly because it recognises a project that introduced audiences to a different side of his musical personality.
With 15 original piano pieces, more than 18 million streams and a series of live performances behind it, Piano has established its own place within his discography.
The award also underlines the role of Geronimo Snijtsheuvel in bringing the project to life and the importance of the audience whose votes made the recognition possible.
For an artist who has spent decades shaping the global trance scene, this latest milestone proves that his musical identity reaches well beyond electronic dance music.
Fans can find further updates, music releases and upcoming projects through Armin van Buuren’s official website.