Jörg Widmann has been named recipient of the International Mendelssohn Prize 2026 in Leipzig alongside the former German chancellor Angela Merkel. The award ceremony takes place on 1 November 2026 at Gewandhaus Leipzig. Jörg Widmann’s deep connection to the life and work of Felix Mendelssohn has shaped his work as conductor, clarinetist and composer.

The Mendelssohn Prize of the City of Leipzig recognises outstanding achievements in music and social engagement in the spirit of Felix Mendelssohn. Recent laureates of the prestigious award include Elena Bashkirova and W. Michael Blumenthal (2025) alongside previous recipients such as Kurt Masur, Anne-Sophie Mutter, Lang Lang, and Thomanerchor Leipzig.