Pianist Martha Argerich, known for her incredible recordings of 20th century composers, has been awarded a Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) Gold Medal. She joins Daniel Barenboim, Plácido Domingo and Simon Rattle in the illustrious list of recipients, with Argerich’s the 101st medal awarded.
In its citation RPS stated that, ‘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.’
As well as her work with modern composers Argerich is known for her concerto and chamber pieces. Her Martha Argerich Project is now in its 15th edition at Lugano International Festival, a chamber music programme she personally curates.
‘She says everything through music,’ said her long term collaborator pianist Gabriele Baldocci. ‘I’ve never had a formal lesson with her, but she is my greatest teacher.’
She was recently the subject of Argerich (Bloody Daughter), a film that documents her career and somewhat turbulent personal life. On 10 November she played a Claudio Abbado tribute concert at Philharmonie de Paris in Paris, and has dates in France, Hungary, Canada and Germany booked for early 2016.
RPS was founded in 1870 in celebration of the centenary of the birth of Beethoven. RPS chairman John Gilhooly awarded the Gold Medal to Argerich at a ceremony in Wigmore Hall, London.