The Bruckner Society of America has announced that it will award its prestigious Julio Kilenyi Medal of Honor to Manfred Honeck, Music Director of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Honeck will be recognized for his exceptional contributions to the understanding and appreciation of the life and music of Anton Bruckner. The medal will be presented during the BNY Classics performance featuring Bruckner’s Symphony No. 8.

The Society cited Honeck’s many performances and recordings of Bruckner’s works, noting that his interpretations have not only been musically compelling but have brought Bruckner’s music to life for audiences across the United States and internationally.

In a statement in regards to the award, Honeck said “The music of Anton Bruckner has been a profound companion throughout my life. From my time performing Bruckner in the Vienna Philharmonic under Karajan, Bernstein or Giulini, to today, my 18th year as Music Director in Pittsburgh, the exploration of Bruckner’s musical character and spirit has been central to my artistic experience. I am grateful to the musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony for helping to memorialize this in our recordings and honored by the Society for this award.”

Founded in 1931, the Bruckner Society of America commissioned noted sculptor Julio Kilenyi to create the Medal of Honor in its inaugural year. The first recipient was Arturo Toscanini and since then it has been presented to Bruno Walter, Otto Klemperer, Bernard Haitink, Daniel Barenboim, and Herbert Blomstedt.

Read Related Stories 

• Manfred Honeck & Matthias Goerne Highlight Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra