Maria João Pires, the renowned Portuguese pianist, has been honored with the 2024 Praemium Imperiale Award for Music. This prestigious accolade, awarded annually by the Japan Art Association, recognizes remarkable achievements across various artistic disciplines, including architecture, painting, theatre, film, and sculpture. The award comes with a prize of 15 million Yen (approximately $73,000) and is given under the honorary patronage of HIH Prince Hitachi, the younger brother of Emperor Emeritus of Japan.
Pires shares this year’s distinction with a distinguished group of laureates, including Shigeru Ban (architecture), Sophie Calle (painting), Ang Lee (theatre and film), and Doris Salcedo (sculpture). Each of these artists has created works that deeply reflect their cultural inspirations.
In a video accompanying the announcement, Pires spoke eloquently about the nature of creativity and the power of imagination, stating, "We all have imagination, but many people are afraid of imagination because imagination also means change. We change every minute, every hour, every day. Our life is change." She emphasized the positive potential of imagination when not constrained by fear, conveying that it brings forth inspiration and love.
Pires is in esteemed company, having been previously awarded accolades joined by esteemed musicians like Yo-Yo Ma, Martha Argerich, and Winton Marsalis, the prior year’s recipient. The Praemium Imperiale serves as a testament to the achievements of artists who may not be recognized by other organizations, filling a significant niche within the global art community.
The awards were announced by Lord Patten, who remarked that all five laureates have drawn inspiration from their homelands and cultures, creating works of profound significance. For more details on the award and its laureates, visit Gramophone.