Opus Klassik 2026 honors classical music stars in Berlin

The Opus Klassik 2026 awards celebrate excellence in classical music through a series of events in Berlin. The main gala, moderated by Désirée Nosbusch, is scheduled to take place at the Konzerthaus Berlin on October 11.

Key honorees include tenor Jonas Kaufmann for audiovisual music production, soprano Katharina Konradi for solo vocal recordings, and baritone André Schuen as singer of the year. Argentine pianist Martha Argerich will be honored for her lifetime achievement. The awards also recognize emerging talent, with pianist Alexander Malofeev and soprano Shira Patchornik named as rising artists of the year.

Other notable recognitions include Lang Lang as bestseller of the year, Sarah Willis as instrumentalist of the year, and Gregor Mayrhofer receiving the innovation prize for sustainability. The festivities include a concert of award winners held at the Fotografiska Museum, featuring performances ranging from chamber music to jazz and crossover styles.