The First  Wigmore Hall Medal is awarded to baritone Matthias Goerne (ME)

 

 

The Wigmore Hall Medal: designed and made by British artist Irene Gunston.

 

 

The first Wigmore Hall Medal was awarded to Matthias Goerne on 22^nd February 2007.  It is a new honour, bestowed at the discretion of the Director, the Hall’s Board of trustees and key industry leaders, to recognise those who have made a significant contribution to the Wigmore Hall and what it represents.   For over a hundred years, the Wigmore Hall has presented the best in chamber music and song.  Numerous artists and composers have appeared on its stage, and many major works premiered.  The famous mosaic above the stage depicting the Soul of Music symbolizes the inspiration that gives the Wigmore Hall its formidable reputation for excellence.  

 

Matthias Goerne made his UK debut at the Wigmore Hall some 14 years ago and, in the words of the Hall’s Director, John Gilhooly, “demonstrates his belief in all the Wigmore Hall stands for”. The knowledgeable, experienced audiences here have taken artists like Goerne into their hearts because they have “made their repertoire come alive within these walls, and have helped create extraordinary musical experiences”.When the award was presented, Goerne beamed and sang “An die Musik” with heartfelt sincerity and fervour.  Seldom have the words had more resonance :

 

“Du holde Kunst, in wieviel grauen Stunden,
Wo mich des Lebens wilder Kreis umstrickt,
Hast du mein Herz zu warmer Lieb entzunden,
Hast mich |: in eine beßre Welt entrückt!

 

Oft hat ein Seufzer, deiner Harf' entflossen,
Ein süßer, heiliger Akkord von dir
Den Himmel beßrer Zeiten mir erschlossen,
Du holde Kunst, ich danke dir dafür!”

 

Now that the Wigmore Hall issues its own recordings of live concerts, and is broadcast by BBC Radio 3, the Wigmore Hall experience can reach audiences the world over. 

 

Melanie Eskenazi