Valais State Cultural Prize
The Prix Culturel de l'Etat du Valais is awarded to musician Javier Hagen. Encouragement prizes were awarded to three artists, including musician Sarah Brunner. A special prize is also awarded to the Oberwalliser Kellertheater Association.
Awarded since 1980 by the State Council, the Prix Culturel de l'Etat du Valais is presented each year to an artist (or group of artists) from Valais or established in Valais. The prize, worth 20,000 francs, is awarded for a proven and recognized career. The three annual Encouragement Prizes recognize the work of talented artists at an important turning point in their careers. Endowed with 10,000 francs each, these prizes are intended as a strong sign of recognition, an incentive to continue their development. Since 2011, a special prize of 10,000 francs has been awarded to innovative individuals or groups in the field of cultural mediation or production, whose work "behind the scenes" contributes to the Canton's cultural development.
2013 Cultural Award for musician Javier Hagen
Born in Barcelona in 1971, Javier Hagen studied classical singing, composition, Lied and medieval and baroque music in Germany, Italy and Switzerland. As a tenor and counter-tenor with an exceptional vocal range, he naturally turned to the contemporary repertoire. Over the course of his career, Javier Hagen has created more than 200 works, which have been performed by renowned ensembles at prestigious international contemporary music festivals. His works reflect an intense confrontation with the expressive possibilities of voice and language, and often include scenic elements.
The Encouragement Prizes are awarded to three talented artists, including musician Sarah Brunner. Born in 1984 in Eischoll, she studied organ at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences, as well as sacred music and choral conducting. She continued her training as an organist in Berlin. In addition to her concert activities, she has been organist and choir director in Visp and Zermatt since 2012.
The Oberwalliser Kellertheater Association receives the Special Prize. Founded in 1972, the Oberwalliser Kellertheater Association aims to promote cultural life in the Upper Valais. The foundation of the Château de Stockalper in Brig made its former carnotzet available to the association, which from then on set up a diversified theatrical and musical program of 30 to 40 events a year.
