Chile announces 2026 National Prize winners in Literature and Musical Arts

Chile has announced the winners of the 2026 National Prizes for Literature and Musical Arts.

Writer, journalist, and academic Cynthia Rimsky has been named the recipient of the National Prize for Literature in the narrative category. She is the seventh woman to receive this honor. The jury praised her for creating a unique narrative form that blends elements of the novel, chronicle, autobiography, and essay. Rimsky expressed gratitude to the jury and noted the importance of cultural funds in supporting the literary profession.

Classical guitarist Luis Orlandini has been unanimously awarded the National Prize for Musical Arts. The jury recognized his career for its interpretive excellence, commitment to Chilean musical creation, and dedication to training new generations of musicians. Orlandini, a fundamental figure in the consolidation of classical guitar in Chile, stated he was honored to join the lineage of past winners and dedicated the award to the country's many musical creators.