Creative musician who skilfully plays the piano - Pianist Igor Levit wins the prestigious German National Award
Igor Levit, a skilled pianist, has received the prestigious German National Prize, valued at 30,000 euros, from the German National Foundation in Berlin. The foundation acknowledged Levit as an influential figure in the music industry and an active member of society, who advocates for social harmony.
The 37-year-old musician stands out for his concern about issues concerning marginalization, anti-Semitism, and racism. Additionally, he's been a vocal opponent of anti-Semitism in Germany.
Another recipient of the grant this year was the Three-Religion Kindergarten House in Berlin, which receives 20,000 euros for its mission to create a shared learning environment for children from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. The institution aims to bring together Jewish, Christian, and Muslim kindergartens along with a space for collaborative gatherings, where future generations can explore the benefits of living together from a young age.
Bundestag President Bärbel Bas praised Levit during her speech, emphasizing his commitment to defending democratic rights and freedoms. She referred to him as someone who embodies the ideals set forth in the German constitution. Levit also made a point to share his sympathies for victims of a recent terror attack in Israel by the Hamas organization.
His friend, journalist Michel Friedman, referred to Levit as a global citizen who strives for a democratic society. Levit's love for people is evident in his work and his constant pursuit of justice.
After receiving the award, Levit declared his plans to use the prize money to honor individuals and groups defending Jewish lives in Germany. He expressed his intention to provide support to such people and organizations with this funding.
During the acceptance speech, Levit asserted that safeguarding democracy should be our top priority and the most challenging task. A democracy that neglects the safety and well-being of vulnerable minorities, such as Jewish citizens, is no longer a democracy. To conclude his speech, Levit played a piece on the piano, a place he associates with comfort and security.
Founded in 1993, the foundation has been recognizing individuals making significant contributions to the democratic society since 1997. Helmut Schmidt, a prominent former German chancellor, was among the group who established the organization.
