WESPE Special Awards "Best Interpretation of a Work of Classical Modernism"

Since 2008, the WESPE Special Awards for the "Best Interpretation of a Work of Classical Modernism" have annually honored outstanding performances by young musicians within the nationwide competition "Jugend musiziert." Under the patronage of the Bertold Hummel Non-Profit Foundation GmbH, prize money is awarded to promote artistic engagement with key compositions of Classical Modernism. Participants presenting a selected work from this era automatically qualify for evaluation and receive a thorough assessment by experienced jurors. The criteria primarily include interpretative depth, stylistic design, and musical expressiveness. The award not only provides financial support but also offers a platform to sharpen the profile as an emerging artist and gain visibility in the national music scene.

Interested individuals from all instrumental and vocal categories can submit their application materials by participating in "Jugend musiziert." The special awards are granted annually during the so-called "Special Awards Weekends" (WESPE) and complement the regular competition program with a dedicated support segment for Classical Modernism. The distinction enhances public recognition, confirms artistic achievement, and encourages further interpretative explorations of modern compositions. Through continuous support, the Bertold Hummel Non-Profit Foundation GmbH contributes to the sustainable promotion of young talents in music, culture, and media, opening up a long-term perspective for the awarded interpretations within Germany's musical life.