Mexican conductor Felipe Tristán will be awarded the Mayte Spínola Gold Medal, one of the principal distinctions granted by the Grupo Pro Arte y Cultura.

The award, which honors individuals and institutions whose work strengthens the relationship between culture, society, and patronage, recognizes Tristán’s extensive international presence as he is Artistic Director of the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra, Associate Conductor of the San Antonio Philharmonic, and Principal Conductor of Ballet de Monterrey. He recently concluded a tour of Austria and Hungary as guest conductor with the Hungarian State Orchestra of Szolnok, and maintains an active schedule with upcoming engagements in Italy, Bulgaria, and across the United States.

Based in New York, Tristán made history in 2024 as the first Mexican conductor to receive the Muzyczne Orły Award from Poland’s Ministry of Culture and National Heritage for Best Recording, for his album “Flute Concertos: Penderecki & Reinecke” with the Janáček Philharmonic on Hänssler Classic. He has appeared at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the MET Gala, and is featured in the Disney+ documentary “In Vogue: The 90s.”

“Music is a language that connects cultures, generations, and distinct social and historical contexts. My work seeks to build bridges between traditions and new audiences, keeping music alive and relevant in the contemporary world. Receiving this recognition in a European context of cultural dialogue is especially meaningful,” said Tristán, per an official press statement.

The ceremony will take place on March 27 at 6 p.m. local time at the historic Castillo Spínola Merode in Rixensart, Belgium, hosted by the Merode family, one of Europe’s most prominent aristocratic households. This XII edition of the awards will also honor H.R.H. Princess Adelaide d’Orleans, Archduchess Ana Gabriela of Austria, Princess of von Wrede, and Prince Charles Adrien de Merode, underscoring the international profile and prestige of the distinction.