Sir Elton John has been awarded the 15th Glenn Gould Prize, a prestigious international honour celebrating artistic excellence and humanitarian impact. The Glenn Gould Foundation announced the decision following nominations from the public and deliberation by a panel of distinguished cultural figures.
The prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of the Arts”, is awarded biennially to individuals whose work has enriched the human condition. Previous recipients include Leonard Cohen, Yo-Yo Ma, and Philip Glass.
A Career of Musical and Humanitarian Excellence
Sir Elton John’s influence in music, culture, and philanthropy has spanned over five decades. He has sold over 300 million albums, achieved more than 50 Top 40 hits, and is one of the few artists to have won an EGOT—holding Grammy, Oscar, Emmy, and Tony Awards. His single “Candle in the Wind” remains the best-selling physical single of all time.
Beyond music, his philanthropic efforts are equally remarkable. In 1992, he founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has since raised over $600 million to support HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care worldwide. He has also been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and the support of emerging artists.
A Recognition of Artistic and Social Contribution
The jury for this year’s prize was chaired by former Canadian Prime Minister Kim Campbell and included actor Jeremy Irons, author Bernhard Schlink, screenwriter Lee Hall, and BBC Radio 3 Controller Sam Jackson, among others.
Announcing the decision, Ms Campbell said Sir Elton was selected not only for his artistic accomplishments but also for his dedication to social change.
“Elton John has used his enormous talent and great success to change lives,” she said. “He has championed causes that were not always popular, from HIV/AIDS awareness to LGBTQ+ rights. His influence extends far beyond his music, making a real impact on the world.”
The Glenn Gould Prize was established in 1987 to honour the legacy of Canadian pianist Glenn Gould. Alongside a CDN$100,000 award, the Laureate selects an emerging talent to receive the CDN$25,000 Glenn Gould Protégé Prize.
An Honour Celebrating a Lifetime of Achievement
Sir Elton expressed his gratitude for the award, stating: “After decades of admiring Glenn Gould’s virtuosity, I am awestruck and honoured to receive this prize.”
Brian Levine, CEO of the Glenn Gould Foundation, described him as a “perfect recipient”. “Sir Elton embodies the ideals of creativity, originality, and using music as a force for good,” he said.
The official announcement took place at Kings Place in London, featuring performances by South African soprano Pumeza Matshikiza and Canadian piano prodigy Ryan Wang. A formal gala celebration in Toronto will honour Sir Elton later this year.
