Hilary Hahn Wins €50,000 Karajan Award

The prize, which was founded by Herbert von Karajan's widow Eliette, is awarded to a musician "whose exceptional artistic achievements have found global recognition"

 

American violinist Hilary Hahn will join previous recipients of the Herbert von Karajan Award, including pianist Daniil Trifonov, cellist Sol Gabetta, and conductor Mariss Jansons.

Established in 2017, the prestigious award carries a monetary prize of 50,000 Euros, which has been endowed by Karajan's widow Eliette von Karajan.

The award was presented to Hahn on October 30, following a performance of Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 5 with the Staatskapelle Dresden and Daniele Gatti. The performance was part of the Salzburg Easter Festival, which was delayed this year because of the pandemic.

"Thank you, for this wonderful music, it is my special honor to award you with this prize in this extraordinary place where I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the most wonderful musical moments," said Arabel Karajan, the son of Herbert von Karajan. "In the spirit of my father, I may present you with this award.”

Hahn, one of the world's preeminent violinists, is also known for her dedication to educational causes and commissioning new works to extend the reach of classical music.

The three-time Grammy-award winning violinist was this year named Artist-in-Residence at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

The Violin Channel sat down for an interview with Hahn about her career, upcoming projects, and coming back from her yearlong sabbatical amid a pandemic. Hahn's most recent album, "Paris," features music by Rautavaara, Chausson, and Prokofiev.