Tabea Zimmermann, a prominent violist from Germany, has been appointed as the new Chair of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation Board, succeeding Peter Ruzicka on July 3, 2023.

Zimmermann was honored with the prestigious Ernst von Siemens Music Prize in 2020, which carries a value of €250,000. This esteemed award is granted annually to a musician, composer, or music scholar who has made an exceptional contribution to the field of music.

Throughout its history, this prize has recognized notable individuals such as Yehudi Menuhin, Gidon Kremer, Anne-Sophie Mutter, Mstislav Rostropovich, Herbert von Karajan, Leonard Bernstein, Mariss Jansons, Claudio Abbado, and György Ligeti.

Zimmermann, recognized as one of the world's leading violists, has held the position of artist-in-residence with the Berliner Philharmoniker and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. She frequently performs as a soloist with renowned orchestras worldwide.

She has been the inspiration for numerous compositions, including György Ligeti's Sonata for Solo Viola, and has released over 50 recordings. Notably, she completed a comprehensive collection of Paul Hindemith's viola works, which was published by myrios classics in 2013.

Reflecting on her new role, Zimmermann expressed her appreciation for the foundation's support of artists, stating, "I have witnessed the exceptional work of this foundation and the high value it places on supporting musicians. Receiving the prize at this point in my life, I now have many opportunities to engage in committees, pursue my chamber music endeavors, collaborate with others, exchange ideas, and inspire others. Therefore, it is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility for me to assume the Chairmanship of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation Board."

She further emphasized the foundation's remarkable commitment to contemporary music, stating, "The foundation has positioned itself admirably by providing targeted support to new music. It is a significant achievement of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation to support contemporary music in this manner, granting artistic individuals the freedom and encouragement they need in their pursuits. The foundation's level of involvement in this regard is truly unparalleled in the world."