Salzburg, Austria — Asmik Grigorian’s latest accolade at the Austrian Music Theater Award is much more than a testament to her skill; it’s a recognition of her influential presence in opera, a genre deeply entrenched in Austria’s cultural history. The 43-year-old soprano, who is currently performing as Polina in Peter Sellars’ “The Gambler” at the prestigious Salzburg Festival, expressed profound gratitude, underscoring the immense value she finds in such acclaim in a country renowned for its operatic tradition.
Grigorian’s journey through the world of opera is marked by compelling performances that blend emotional intensity with dramatic depth. Her particular portrayal of Salome in Richard Strauss’ opera at the 2018 Salzburg Festival, under the direction of Romeo Castellucci, was a turning point in her career, earning her widespread admiration and establishing her as a formidable talent on the global stage.
Year after year, Grigorian has become a staple at the Salzburg Festival, captivating audiences with her dynamic performances in roles across a range of operas from Strauss’ “Elektra” to Verdi’s “Macbeth.” This has not only solidified her standing at the festival but also showcased her versatility and consistent ability to engage with complex characters.
Beyond the festival circuit, Grigorian continues to make significant strides on the international scene. Her upcoming debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York as Cio-Cio-San in “Madama Butterfly” and her performances at the Bavarian State Opera in Munich highlight her ongoing demand at some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses.
Born into a musical family in Vilnius, Lithuania, Grigorian, daughter to renowned opera singers, was seemingly destined for a career in music. Her early exposure to opera through her parents paved the path to her education at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Drama and subsequently to global stages including Stockholm’s Royal Opera and New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
Beyond her performance endeavors, Grigorian is committed to nurturing opera’s development, evidenced by her role as a founding member of Vilnius City Opera. Her efforts in promoting the art in Lithuania and internationally underline her dedication not just to performing but also to enhancing accessibility and appreciation of opera.
Recognition for Grigorian’s artistic contributions spans multiple honors and awards, reflecting her influence in the field. These include accolades like the “Singer of the Year” by Opernwelt magazine in 2019, the International Opera Award for “Best Singer,” and several recognitions from the Austrian Music Theater Prize. In 2022, she won the Spanish “Premios Ópera XXI” and in 2023, she received the German “Opus Klassik.”
Karl-Michael Ebner, initiator and president of the Austrian Music Theatre Award, has lauded Grigorian as a natural choice for the “Grand Jury Prize”. He described her career as unparalleled and her contributions to opera as enormous, solidifying her as an exemplary figure in the art form.
When she receives the “Grand Jury Prize” at the Vienna Volksoper, this accolade will mark another pinnacle in Grigorian’s illustrious career, further affirming her role as an inspiring figure in the opera world.
Through her intimate and potent portrayals, coupled with a relentless pursuit to kindle wider appreciation for opera, Asmik Grigorian embodies the essence of a modern operatic luminary. Her inclusion in the pantheon of exceptional opera personalities recognizes not only her talent but her broader impact on the cultural landscape.