The award honours Mutter’s international career and social commitment
Violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter has been awarded the Grand Staufer Medal in gold, in recognition of her international career as a violinist and her social commitment, especially regarding the promotion of young musical talent. Created in 1977, the medal is a special honour bestowed by the Minister-president of Baden-Württemberg for services to the state and its people, and is typically awarded in silver and only rarely in gold.
Mutter received the award from Minister-president Winfried Kretschmann in Stuttgart, Germany, on 11 February. In his speech, Kretschmann lauded Mutter for her support for social issues, such as climate and species protection, and her commitment to the Anne-Sophie Mutter Foundation.
‘Anne-Sophie Mutter has been dedicated, focused and persistent in her commitment to the common good for decades,’ said Kretschmann. ‘She is passionately interested in others. Her music is about creating encounters. In doing so, she enables community in which people can experience themselves as part of a greater whole - regardless of where they come from and what characterises them.’
Following the ceremony, Mutter celebrated on social media:
’What an amazing honour to be awarded the Staufer Medal in gold by the Minister-president of Baden-Württemberg, Winfried Kretschmann! A great day for all of us musicians—I feel we have been truly recognised for our immense contribution in bringing unity, creating a space for connection, and sharing love and joy with people.’
Read: Anne-Sophie Mutter: The Big Picture
Watch: All the notes: Anne-Sophie Mutter performs ‘Hedwig’s Theme’ from Harry Potter
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