Just in: Royal Philharmonic Society awards its Gold Medal to… Martha

What took them so long?

press release:

One of classical music’s highest honours, the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal, has been awarded to the distinguished Argentinian-born pianist, Martha Argerich. She becomes the 101st recipient since the medal was founded in 1870 in celebration of the centenary of the birth of Beethoven (London’s Philharmonic Society commissioned Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and enjoyed a close association with the composer).

RPS Chairman, John Gilhooly, awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal to Martha Argerich at Wigmore Hall, London. In its citation, the Royal Philharmonic Society says:

“Martha Argerich’s combination of technical mastery and passionate artistry make her one of the most compelling and expressive pianists, and her extraordinary live performances are a musical and intellectual tour de force.

She is a consummate chamber music collaborator. It is this spirit of collaboration that led to the Progetto Martha Argerich at the Lugano International Festival, now in its 15th year, through which she demonstrates her enduring generosity and personal commitment to emerging musicians and by mixing established and up-and-coming artists has created many inspirational chamber music partnerships.

Gabriele Baldocci, one of her long- standing duo partners, pays tribute: “She says everything through music. I’ve never had a formal lesson with her, but she is my greatest teacher.”