Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša has been named Artist of the Year 2026 by the International Classical Music Awards (ICMA)—an accolade often described as the “Oscar of classical music.” The jury recognised his outstanding international career and his work with some of the world’s leading orchestras.

The ICMA panel, made up of editors-in-chief of major music magazines and representatives of key cultural institutions, praised Hrůša for combining a deep understanding of musical scores with intense expression and a clear artistic vision.

A Double Honour for Hrůša and Bamberg

At the same time, the jury presented a special award to the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra (Bamberger Symphoniker), which Hrůša has led as Chief Conductor since 2016. The orchestra was commended for its distinctive sound, high artistic standards, and growing international reputation under his leadership.

Speaking to Czech Radio, Hrůša described the prize as a shared achievement with the orchestra, adding that linking his personal award with the orchestra’s honour makes the recognition even more meaningful. In his view, the essence of the achievement lies in teamwork: a conductor, “without an orchestra and collaborators, can achieve nothing.”

One of the Most In-Demand Conductors of His Generation

Hrůša is 44 and is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after conductors of his generation. He is only the second Czech to conduct at the Royal Opera in London, and he is set to become Chief Conductor and Music Director of the Czech Philharmonic from the 2028/2029 season.

The ICMA award adds to a growing list of distinctions. Hrůša was recently named Conductor of the Year 2026 by Musical America and has also received a state decoration for merit from the Czech president. He says he does not compare awards, seeing them instead as reassurance that his approach and artistic values truly resonate—not only with expert juries, but also with audiences in concert halls and opera houses.

Gala Ceremony in March

The official ICMA awards ceremony will take place on March 18 in Bamberg, hosted by Jakub Hrůša and the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra, and will culminate in a gala concert.