The Daphne Awards winners 2026

The Danish Research Foundation selected pianist Lang Lang as the inaugural Daphne Award laureate, recognizing his exceptional artistic presence and his dedication to the social dimensions of music.

Soprano Serena Sáenz and tenor Jonathan Tetelman will each be honored with the Daphne Next Generation Awards. Praised for his expressive voice and emotional intensity, Jonathan Tetelman hasrapidly become one of the most in-demand tenors of his generation. Serena Sáenz, acclaimed for her radiant timbre and technical brilliance, is one of the most exciting emerging sopranos on the international opera stage.

Meet the Award Winners 2026

Joint statement from the board

“Through his exceptional artistry and charismatic presence, Lang Lang has introduced classicalmusic to a broad and diverse audience, inspiring interest and curiosity far beyond traditional circles. Through the Lang Lang International Music Foundation and its initiatives such as Music Heals and Keys of Inspiration, he has shown how music can broaden opportunities, nurture creativity and support strong, engaged communities.”

Daphne Music Award

Lang Lang, Piano

A Global Ambassador for Music
Lang Lang is one of the most influential figures in classical music today. As a pianist, educator, and cultural ambassador, he has reached audiences on every continent — from global events such as the Olympic Opening Ceremony and the Reopening of Notre Dame to intimate performances for children in public schools. Celebrated for his expressive talent and charismatic communication, he performs with the world’s leading orchestras and collaborates with conductors including Sir Simon Rattle, Gustavo Dudamel, and Daniel Barenboim.

‍Bridging Worlds Through Art and Education
His artistic vision extends beyond classical music, with high-profile collaborations involving artists such as Herbie Hancock, Ed Sheeran, JohnLegend, and Rose (BLACKPINK), as well as projects with Disney. Committed to education, he founded the Lang Lang International Music Foundation in 2008 and was appointed a UN Messenger of Peace in 2013 for his work in global education. Lang Lang is also a respected cultural figure in the luxury world and an advocate for innovation, design, and creativity.

‍An Artist Who Inspires Generations
Born in Shenyang, China, Lang Lang began playing the piano at the age of three and rose to international prominence as a teenager. Today, he continues to inspire audiences around the world and shape the future of classical music.

www.langlangofficial.com

www.langlangfoundation.org

Daphne Next Generation Award

Serena Sáenz, Soprano

A Rising Voice in the World of Opera
Spanish soprano Serena Sáenz is one of the most exciting young voices of her generation. Praised for her musicality and radiant high notes, she has quickly established herself on leading opera stages around the world. Since her triple success at the Operalia Competition in 2022, she has become a frequent guest at renowned houses such as the Vienna State Opera, Staatsoper Berlin, the Bavarian State Opera and the Gran Teatre del Liceu.

Upcoming highlights
In the 2025/26 season, Serena Sáenz appears in major role debuts including Konstanze (Die Entführung aus dem Serail), Adina (L’elisir d’amore), Gilda (Rigoletto), Aminta (Die schweigsame Frau) and Susanna (Le nozze di Figaro). Her repertoire spans Mozart, bel canto and contemporary works, and she is highly sought after for both opera and concert projects.

A Unique Artistic Voice
Beyond her stage successes, she collaborates with leading artists and performs internationally in galas, recitals and festivals. In 2025 she released her debut album BIRDS, presenting a lyrical coloratura program inspired by the world of songbirds.

Born in Barcelona, Serena Sáenz began her career at a young age at the Gran Teatre del Liceu and trained in Barcelona and Berlin. Today, she is celebrated as a versatile, expressive artist with a fast-rising international profile.

www.serenasaenz.com
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Daphne Next Generation Award

Jonathan Tetelman, Tenor

A Tenor of Remarkable Presence
Jonathan Tetelman has emerged as one of the most compelling tenors of his generation. Born in Chile and raised in New Jersey, he is praised for the warmth, elegance and expressive power of his voice, and appears regularly on major international opera and concert stages.

A Rapidly Rising Career
Following studies at the Manhattan School of Music and Mannes College, he established himself with a series of acclaimed debuts, leading to an exclusive recording contract with Deutsche Grammophon. His first two albums, Arias and The Great Puccini, received outstanding international recognition, including the Opus Klassik Award for Breakout Artist of the Year.

Performing on the World’s Great Stages
In recent seasons he has performed leading roles at the Wiener Staatsoper, Bayerische Staatsoper, Deutsche Oper Berlin, Arena di Verona, Opera di Roma andGran Teatro La Fenice, alongside concert appearances at Carnegie Hall, the Elbphilharmonie and major European festivals. With his distinctive sound and charismatic stage presence, Jonathan Tetelman continues to capture the attention of audiences and critics worldwide.
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www.jonathantetelman.com