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Home , Antonio Pappano, Bryn Terfel, Cecilia Bartoli, El Sistema, Feodor Chaliapin, Gustavo Dudamel

ROLEX AND MUSIC rolex and music

PARTNERING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE

Rolex supports the arts and music through its patronage of select artists and activities as part of the legacy of the vision and values of the company’s founder Hans Wilsdorf. His constant innovation and perpetual pursuit of excellence produced watches of such high quality that they became renowned symbols of elegance and prestige. In keeping with a desire to foster excellence in the arts and assist in the transmission of knowledge across generations, Rolex has developed ­long-term associations with the world’s most prestigious events, institu- tions and . In addition, the company’s enduring partnerships with some of the world’s greatest artists encourage and recognize­ those who always reach further to attain the highest level of performance. Rolex’s first Testimonee in the arts was New Zealand Dame in the 1970s and the relationship continues to flourish. Renowned Spanish Plácido Domingo has been associated with Rolex since 1982. Building on their inspiration, Rolex has extended such ties globally to successive, gifted generations of ­Testimonees in music, and supports ventures that encourage rising young artists, including singers, conductors and instrumentalists. Beyond sponsorship, the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts ­Initiative seeks out young artists and brings them together with great ­masters for a period of creative collaboration in a one-to-one mentoring relationship. In addition to supporting individual talent, Rolex partners the prestigious institutions that showcase it, including four of the world’s leading houses, in , , New York and , and two beacons of classical music, the and the . This support for rich cultural tradition extends to new frontiers, geographically and through ­partnerships with leading online platforms that make high-quality music accessible to a wide audience. In sharing the brand’s passion for perfection and excellence, Rolex is helping to perpetuate artistic heritage and making a lasting contribution to culture worldwide. ROLEX AND MUSIC : 3

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ICONIC PRESTIGIOUS ROLEX INSTITUTIONS PERFORMANCES TESTIMONEES

P. 4 P.11 P.14

DIGITAL PLATFORMS P.29

ROLEX MENTOR AND PROTÉGÉ ARTS INITIATIVE P.30

MEDIA CONTACTS P.31 ROLEX AND MUSIC

ICONIC INSTITUTIONS

The world’s great operatic stages each have their own distinctive history and distinguished architecture. But what they all share is an uncompromising commitment to the most exacting standards, at all levels, allowing them to attract the most accom- plished ­performers as well as audiences that demand nothing less than ­perfection. Rolex is proud to partner these iconic venues. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 5

TEATRO ALLA SCALA

milan, italy

Milan’s Teatro alla Scala is one of the principal opera houses of the world and the leading Italian house. is the mythical theatre where classic­al music flourished, where great composers such as Rossini, Verdi andPuccini ­ ­triumphed, and where legendary conductor rehearsed in the Sala Gialla. It has been the scene of many famous opera premieres, among them Bellini's , Verdi's and , and Puccini's and . Rolex Testimonees have also made their mark at the renowned venue: Plácido Domingo’s wildly successful Otello dominated one of the greatest sea- sons in La Scala’s history, returned recently after many years, and conducted his first there. La Scala also draws the best stage directors, from Robert Wilson to . Literally translated as “Theatre at the Stairway”, and known simply as La Scala, its name derives from having been built on the site of a Gothic church called Santa Maria alla Scala. It was founded in 1776 under the auspices of the Empress Maria Theresa of Austria (whose country ruled Milan) to replace a previous theatre destroyed by fire. In 1872, it became the property of the city of Milan. The very first performance there was ’s 38-scene opera Europa riconosciuta, a tragic tale of love, violence and political discord. La Scala is known above all for its audience, without a doubt one of the liveliest, most discerning in the world. Teatro alla Scala, through its long and illustrious history, represents ultimate prestige and excellence, values it shares with Rolex, which has been Exclusive Timepiece of La Scala since 2006. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 6

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

london, united kingdom

The magnificent in London’s ­ is one of the most well-known performing arts venues in the United Kingdom. As the home of , and the of the Royal Opera House, it brings together the world's most extraor- dinary artists in more than 500 performances every year on its two world-class­ stages. The Royal Opera House is open every day from 10am and offers a rich programme of daytime events, activities and festivals for people of all ages and through award-­ winning music, dance and theatre it transports its audiences­ to other worlds. The line-up of renowned conductors, directors and ­performing artists who have graced the stage at Covent Garden includes former Rolex Arts Initiative Mentor, the late Sir , who succeeded Sir as Principal Conductor from 1971 to 1986, and Plácido Domingo, Sir and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, all Rolex Testimonees. In 1971, Dame Kiri, Rolex’s first arts Testimonee, gave an unforgettable performance of a youthful Countess in Le nozze di Figaro and returned there in 2014 to celebrate her 70th birthday and final operatic performance playing La Duchesse de Crackentorp in the La fille du régiment. Rolex is Exclusive Timepiece of this great British cultural institution under a partnership formed in 2008. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 7

THE

new york, united states

The Metropolitan Opera, New York, the vibrant home of the world's most Since its inception in 1883, the Metropolitan has stood among the ­grandest of creative and talented operatic artists, is the largest classical music organization opera companies, spanning the decades between the Gilded Age (late 19th cen- in North America. Commonly referred to as “the Met”, it is housed in the heart tury) and the age of new media. It was founded by a group of wealthy business- of a vast artistic complex at the for the Performing Arts, which men and opened with a performance of Gounod’s . By 1903, the acclaimed includes a concert hall, a theatre and a conservatory. Yannick Nézet-Séguin took Italian tenor, , made his debut and swiftly assumed his place as the over the musical helm of the company as the Met’s Jeanette Lerman-Neubauer dominant figure of the company. The new Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Music Director in the 2018/2019 season. Center for the Performing Arts opened in 1966 with a premier performance of The Met is constantly elevating theatrical standards by increasing the­number Samuel Barber's Antony and Cleopatra, written especially for the occasion. of new productions and presenting modern masterpieces alongside the classics. On 28 April 2019, the Met celebrated tenor and Rolex Testimonee Plácido It has also launched a series of initiatives to broaden its reach internation­ally, Domingo, on the occasion of this legendary star’s 50th anniversary with the including the successful Live in HD series of performances transmitted to Met. Among the many other great stars who have appeared at the Met through- movie theatres around the world, and a pioneering education and audience out its illustrious history are Marcella Sembrich, Nellie Melba, Lilli Lehmann, outreach­ programme. , Lauritz Melchior, and . Rolex has been Official Timepiece of the Metropolitan Opera since August 2011. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 8

OPÉRA NATIONAL DE PA R IS

paris, france

The Opéra de Paris is the most esteemed opera company in France and one of the oldest of its kind in the world. Founded in 1669 by King Louis XIV with the aim of giving opera acad- emies or music performances in the French language the same standing as those of Italy, it has since remained a vital musical institution. Classical ballet as we know it today arose here as the Ballet, the oldest national ballet company in the world, and has remained an integral part of the company. In 1989, the newly built Opéra Bastille joined the historic Palais Garnier as part of the Opéra de Paris, which in 1994 became the Opéra national de Paris. The two venues exemplify elegance and style by combining Parisian tradition and modernity in one institution. Palais Garnier The Palais Garnier is a symbol of Paris, a masterpiece created by the ­architect Charles Garnier in 1875. Built on a 3-acre (1.2 hectare) site, it houses a grandiose theatre and pub- lic area, a library-museum, as well as several rehearsal studios and workshops. Even more impressive is the lake underneath the building; it was an integral part of the original design. The Palais Garnier’s neo-baroque style became an influential architectural prototype for many theatres built around the world.

The Opéra Bastille was inaugurated on the occasion of the bicentennial of the French Revolution and was originally created to bring a new “popular and modern” opera house to Paris. Designed by Uruguayan-Canadian­ architect Carlos Ott, its appearance is in stark contrast­ to the opulence of the Palais Garnier. It houses a main theatre, an amphitheatre, a studio theatre, set and cos- Opéra Bastille tume workshop and offices. Rolex has been Exclusive Timepiece of the Opéra national de Paris since 2014. Gustavo Dudamel, a Rolex Testimonee since 2008, was appointed Music Director at the Opéra national de Paris in 2021. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 9

national centre for the performing arts

The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), , is the supreme ­palace of performing arts in China. Founded in 2007, the centre now showcases the greatest artists in the world and rivals the most prestigious international venues. It is located in the heart of Beijing, close to the Great Hall of the People, Tian- anmen Square and the ancient Forbidden City. The structure, surrounded by an artificial lake and green lawns and gardens, is seen as a cultural island in the middle of a lake. Eloquently described as the “Pearl on Water” for its oval steel-structured architectural shape, it is colloquially known as “The Giant Egg”. Designed by French architect Paul Andreu, the complex includes four main performing venues: the Opera House, the Concert Hall, the Theatre and the ­Multifunctional Theatre. Rolex has been Exclusive Timepiece of the National ­Centre for Performing Arts since 2009. ROLEX AND MUSIC ICONIC INSTITUTIONS : 10

The Opéra de Monte-Carlo

The baroque splendour of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo in Monaco is a mirror of the Paris Garnier Opera House, designed by the same celebrated architect, Charles Garnier. The magnificent 600-seat concert hall, known as the Salle Garnier, was inaugurated in January 1879 with a performance by French stage actress Sarah Bernhardt. The theatre has hosted more than 50 world premieres, including Puccini’s in 1917, along with many other 20th Century opera greats, including Massenet’s , featuring Feodor Chaliapin, in 1910, and Ravel’s L’enfant et les sortilèges in 1925. The Opéra de Monte-Carlo, of which Rolex has been Official Timepiece since 2006, has presented out- standing performances of and concerts for more than a century. In more recent years, particular attention has been given to staging a variety of creative and rarely performed works, with the opera house inviting both internation- ally known performers such as Plácido Domingo, Cecilia Bartoli and , as well as younger and lesser-known artists to sing.

Teatro Colón

The Teatro Colón (Colón Theatre), located in the heart of Buenos Aires, is considered one of the most important opera houses in the world as well as one of the few with the ability to complete an entire production in its workshops. Recognized for its exceptional acoustics and design, the current building celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2008. In an eclectic style of the early 20th century and with a total area of 58,000 square metres (624,000 square feet), it was inaugurated on 25 May 1908 with the opera by . Rolex has been the Official Timepiece of the Teatro Colón since 2010. ROLEX AND MUSIC

PRESTIGIOUS PERFORMANCES

Rolex also fosters excellence in the arts through its commitment to two universally acclaimed hearts of artistic performance. Both located in Austria, one of the cradles of classical music, these treasured venues combine a rich history and tradition with unmissable highlights on the annual international arts calendar. ROLEX AND MUSIC PRESTIGIOUS PERFORMANCES : 12

New Year’s Concert Summer Night Concert

The Vienna Philharmonic is widely acknowledged to be one of the world’s finest, upholding the greatest VIENNA PHILHARMONIC traditions in classical music. Founded in 1842, it is renowned for its exacting standards, maintaining artistic integrity and communicating music’s humanitarian message across the world, notably through two events today. new year’s and For 80 years, the Vienna Philharmonic has performed the annual New Year’s Concert on the morn- summer night concerts ing of 1 January, mesmerizing audiences with its sheer brilliance. The concert, traditionally a lively showcase for the much-adored music of Johann Strauss, his family and contemporaries, is also broad- cast live from Vienna’s Musikverein to millions of people in over 90 countries. Rolex has been Exclu- sive Partner of this prestigious orchestra since 2008, and, since January 2009, the Exclusive Sponsor of the New Year’s Concert. The Vienna Philharmonic continues sharing musical joy at the Summer Night Concert, where every year in May or June, around 100,000 people gather in the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn in the Austrian capital for an uplifting open-air performance that has been presented by Rolex annually since 2009. These events, and the Rolex Night Concerts – other Vienna Philharmonic concerts of note around the world supported by Rolex every year – highlight a shared commitment to make the finest classical music accessible to all. ROLEX AND MUSIC PRESTIGIOUS PERFORMANCES : 13

The Salzburg Festival has established itself as one of the most prestigious of its kind, attracting visitors from around the world and showcasing artistic excellence and innovation through two major events. SALZBURGER Inaugurated almost a century ago, on 22 August 1920, the Salzburg Festival debuted with a performance of Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s morality play Jedermann on the Domplatz, the square in front of the Salzburger Dom cathedral. Now- FESTSPIELE adays, over six weeks every European summer, the Salzburg Festival features more than 180 classical and contemporary performances, including operas, drama and concerts for visitors from 80 countries, and is also renowned for introducing new works onto the international music scene. The Salzburg Festival takes place in Salzburg’s historic, baroque city centre, whitsun and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of . Rolex has been Main Sponsor of the summer festivals Salzburg Festival since 2012, forever encouraging appreciation for the arts on a global scale.

Whitsun Festival Established in 1998, Salzburg’s Whitsun Festival is an extension of the summer Salzburg Festival and features an impressive repertoire of operas and concerts over the Whitsun week. Now under the artistic direction of world-famous mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli, a Rolex Testimonee since 1994, the Festival always strives for new heights of excellence and prestige. Rolex has also been Exclusive Sponsor of the Whitsun Festival since 2012. ROLEX AND MUSIC

ROLEX TESTIMONEES

Passion and precision are keynotes of the performances of the famous artists that Rolex partners, captivating music lovers around the world. From the hallowed brilliance of operatic greats to the innovative spirit of rising young performers, these individual ­musical virtuosos span several generations at the height of their art. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 15

DAME KIRI TE K A NAWA

soprano

Celebrated soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa has captured the hearts of audiences in all the great opera houses of the world. In 1966, aged 21, she arrived at the London Opera Centre, now known as the National Opera Studio. Three years later, she made her debut in a small role at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. In 1971, she was cast as the Countess in Le Nozze di Figaro at Covent Garden to great acclaim. Success continued, and, in 1975, she stepped into the role of Desdemona in Otello at three hours’ notice, once again to accolades. Already a great opera star, in 1981, she achieved iconic status when 600 million people heard her sing at the wed- ding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. Shortly afterwards, she was appointed a Dame of the British KIRI TE KANAWA FOUNDATION Empire. Dame Kiri is renowned for her interpretations of The world of classical music requires a life of dedication. Mozart and . She is for many the unsur- In 2004, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa established the Kiri passed Marschallin in , a role she took Te Kanawa Foundation to assist young, exceptionally for her last full opera in Cologne in 2010; other composers talented New Zealand singers with financial support, mentoring and guidance on how to develop careers at the whose work she is known for are Verdi and Puccini. highest level. Rolex has supported the foundation since In 1976, Kiri Te Kanawa honoured Rolex by becoming the beginning, out of the company’s belief in the impor- its first arts Testimonee, a role she retains to this day as tance of the transmission of knowledge to the next gen- eration. A UK-based arm of the foundation helps young a most esteemed partner. In addition to the many inter­ international singers achieve career recognition. Dame national awards she has received, Dame Kiri became a Kiri is currently Patron of Cardiff Singer of the World, a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour, role which she takes on with great passion. In 2019, the prestigious Aotea Centre’s ASB Theatre in Auckland, bestowed on her in December 2018 at Buckingham Palace, New Zealand, was renamed the Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, by HRH The Prince of . with a gala concert highlighting the foundation. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 16

PLÁCIDO DOMINGO

tenor, and conductor

OPERALIA In 1993, Plácido Domingo founded , the World Opera Competition. Sponsored by Rolex since 2001, Operalia is designed to encourage emerging talent worldwide and to act as a launch pad for young singers. Held in a different host city each year, singers audition in front of a panel of distinguished figures in opera. In this way, the Competition becomes, particularly in later rounds, an important professional showcase. The world-famous Operalia competition is only the beginning – Plácido Domingo takes a com- mitted interest in competitors’ careers, long after the event. Fellow Rolex Testimonees Rolando Villazón and Sonya Yoncheva both won prizes through Operalia which boosted their careers.

Plácido Domingo is a giant in the world of opera. Acclaimed both for his voice Throughout Plácido Domingo’s career, his energy and the breadth of his activity and the power of his interpretation, his unrivalled repertoire has ranged from have been astonishing. He was General Director of the Washington National tenor to baritone. Opera until 2011, and of the Opera until 2019. A renowned Still performing after more than half a century on stage, the Spanish-born singer, conductor, recording artist of both opera and popular music, as well as a star and Rolex Testimonee since 1982 has sung over 150 opera roles in pro- teacher, he also lays claim to the longest standing ovation in opera: 80 minutes ductions all around the world. The roll call of great stages on which he has and 101 curtain calls for a performance of Verdi’s Otello in Vienna in 1991. appeared include Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, London’s Royal Opera House and ­Domingo’s connection with Rolex is best exemplified in his own words: “The the Metropolitan­ Opera in New York where he has been performing for 50 years. time, rigour and artistry invested in the production, assembly and testing of a Rolex ­wristwatch are like the journey from score to stage... it’s all about quality.” ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 17

CECILIA BARTOLI

mezzo-soprano

Italian mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli is an international opera star. With early encouragement from her mother, herself a well-known opera singer and teacher, she began her studies in Rome at just 15, making her opera debut in 1987 at the age of 21. Her performances of Mozart and Rossini soon won her international acclaim, and after her sensational 1996 debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York as Despina in Così fan tutte, leading roles at many of the world’s great opera houses followed. Renowned also as a recital singer, Cecilia Bartoli’s musical curiosity takes her from the baroque to the Romantic, and beyond. Her baroque recordings alone have achieved sales far beyond those of most classical singers. In 2012, Cecilia Bartoli became artistic director of the Salzburg ­Whitsun Festival – the same year that Rolex included the festival in its cultural portfolio. Furthermore, she is artistic direct­or of the orchestra Les Musiciens du Prince-Monaco, which she founded in 2016 and is based at the Opéra de ­Monte-Carlo under the patronage of Prince Albert II and ­Princess Caroline. The artist has received numerous awards, including the Léonie Sonning Music Prize (2010), the Herbert von ­Karajan Prize (2012) and the (2016). She has been a Rolex Testimonee since 1994. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 18

SONYA YONCH EVA

soprano

Born in 1981, the Bulgarian operatic soprano Sonya Yoncheva has achieved a rapid rise to fame in recent years. She studied singing at the Conservatory of Geneva under the tutelage of Danielle Borst. In 2007, conductor William Christie invited her to join his academy for young singers, Le Jardin des Voix. Then, in 2010, she took both first prize and the special CulturArte Prize at the world’s leading opera competition, Operalia, founded by Rolex Testimonee Plácido Domingo. Before long, Sonya Yoncheva began to take leading roles across Europe. In late 2014, she was called to step in at the last minute as Mimi in La bohème at the Met. The reviews were ecstatic. Her place as one of the world’s most exciting young opera stars was confirmed and she is now in constant demand at the world’s leading opera houses. In 2017-2018, Sonya Yoncheva received acclaim for roles in major operas: Elisabeth in at the Opéra national de Paris; Imogène in by Bellini at La Scala; by Puccini at the Met; by Verdi, with Plácido Domingo, at the Met. She also per- formed the title role in Médée by Cherubini, marking the 50th role in her repertoire. Sonya Yoncheva joined the Rolex family of Testimonees in 2011. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 19

JUAN DIEGO FLÓREZ

tenor

Juan Diego Flórez is one of today's most celebrated and beloved . With a career that includes performances on the world's leading stages, he has established himself as one of opera's greatest talents with his expressive sing- ing and virtuosity. His generosity, charisma and passion inspire his many philanthropic endeavours, in addition to his acclaimed operatic appearances and recordings. Born in Lima in 1973, Flórez began singing and ­playing ­Peruvian folk and pop music at an early age, but his train- ing and the effortless beauty of his voice soon led him to opera and, in particular, to operas by composers such as Rossini, Donizetti and Bellini. In 1996, he made his professional debut at the Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro, stepping in at the last minute to sing the leading role in Matilde di Shabran. It proved a momentous begin- ning to his career and in that same year, at just 23, he made his debut at Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, under the baton of ­. In 2011, Juan Diego Flórez established the foundation Sinfonía por el Perú, an inclusive social project that aims to enhance the personal and artistic development of the most vulnerable children and youth in his home country through music. He became a Rolex Testimonee in 2015. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 20

JONAS KAUFMANN

tenor

With his thrilling, burnished voice and powerful stage ­presence, the German tenor is the ideal of the modern opera star. He is most celebrated for his inter­ pret­ation of Romantic opera’s great roles, and his voice, slightly darker than that of the traditional Italian tenor, seems to have been made for composers such as Verdi, Wagner, Bizet, Massenet and Puccini. However, his reper- toire is extensive, and whether he is singing heroic roles or ­Schubert lieder, critics praise both his controlled intensity and sublime phrasing. Born in 1969 into a family of music lovers, Jonas Kaufmann came relatively late to opera, after first enrolling to study mathematics. He made his first professional appear- ance in 1994, at the age of 26, and built his career largely in Europe. In 2006 he made his Metropolitan Opera debut in New York as Alfredo in , catapulting him to global fame. A Rolex Testimonee since 2009, Jonas Kaufmann is now among the top performers appearing on the world’s great opera stages. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 21

SIR BRYN TERFEL

-baritone

The renowned bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel draws the force of his singing talent from his Welsh roots. In 1989, soon after graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, he won the coveted Lieder Prize in the Cardiff Singer of the World competition. His professional oper- atic debut came the following year when he was cast as Guglielmo in Così fan tutte at the . Within a few years he had appeared at the Royal Opera House in London as Masetto in Don Giovanni and at the Metropolitan Opera in New York as Figaro in Le nozze di Figaro. Since the mid-1990s, Sir Bryn Terfel has sung the music of composers as diverse as Richard Strauss, Stravinsky­ and . He is also much acclaimed for his per- formance in the title role in Sweeney Todd and as Reb Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. Roles for which he is most noted include Falstaff, Dulcamara, Scarpia, Boris ­Godunov and Holländer. But, above all, he has become one of the world’s most sought-after Wagner singers, and has performed the role of Wotan in the cycle of operas at the Royal Opera House and Metropolitan Opera. The Grammy Award winner's discography includes operas by Mozart, Wagner and Strauss, as well as many solo recordings. He has been a Rolex Testimonee since 2007. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 22

ROLANDO VILLAZÓN

tenor

Born in Mexico in 1972, Rolando Villazón is one of the world’s leading lyric Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, and has appeared in televised concerts alongside­ tenors. He first came to prominence in 1999 when he won three prizes in Plácido his friend and mentor Plácido Domingo, captivating millions of television Domingo’s Operalia competition. Since then, his star has continued to rise, his viewers worldwide. Almost all his recordings are bestsellers, winning gold or passion, talent and arresting stage presence bringing life to every opera in which ­platinum awards. he performs. Rolando Villazón is among the most versatile artists today, maintaining A glorious romantic lead, he is a regular guest in the world’s leading opera ­successful careers as a stage director, novelist, and radio and television personal- houses and festivals. In recent years he has, to great acclaim, added Mozart ity, as well as his on-stage career. In 2017, he was named artistic director of the roles to his repertoire. He also performs in all major concert halls such as at Mozart Week Festival in Salzburg. He has been a Rolex Testimonee since 2005. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 23

BENJAMIN BERNHEIM

tenor

The young French tenor Benjamin Bernheim has quickly emerged as a rising star on Europe's opera and concert stages. His distinctive voice has been described as "flaw- less and pure, ranging from delicate pianissimo to heroic fortissimo..." by , and he has been hailed as a singer of outstanding calibre by audiences and press alike. His talent was first recognized internationally during his time as an artist in residence at the Opernhaus Zürich (2010-2015). Since then, he has been given leading roles at some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, includ- ing La Scala, Royal Opera House, the Opéra national de Paris and the Staatsoper Berlin, where he has become a regular guest artist. Highlights of his 2019/2020 season include, among others, his role debut as Duca di Mantova in at the Bayerische Staatsoper and a return to the Opéra de Paris as Alfredo in La traviata. His debut album was released in 2019. Benjamin Bernheim became a Rolex Testimonee in 2017. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 24

GUSTAVO DUDAMEL

conductor

Gustavo Dudamel, a Rolex Testimonee since 2008, is driven by the belief that music has the power to transform lives, to inspire, and to change the world. Dudamel spent many years in ’s legendary under José Antonio Abreu, and now keeps his mentor’s vision alive through his continued commitment to El Sistema, YOLA ( Los Angeles) and music education ­programmes around the world. He is also renowned for breaking boundaries in ­classical music, performing at the Academy Awards, the Super Bowl and with superstars like Katy Perry and . In 2009, Dudamel began his tenure as Music and Artistic Director of the esteemed , a Rolex partner. He conducted­ the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra in at the 2016 Salzburg Festival, supported by Rolex. The following year, he became the youngest-ever conductor of the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Concert. As of 1 August 2021, Dudamel is also the Music ­Director at the Opéra national de Paris, another Rolex partner. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 25

SIR ANTONIO PA PPA NO

Conductor

Sir is acknowledged as one of music’s most inspirational and charismatic leaders. During his long and brilliant tenure at Covent Garden, where he has been music director since 2002, he has worked with many of the great singers of the age, operas across the classical repertoire, alongside world premieres of works by leading contemporary composers. Born in London in 1959 to Italian parents, he later moved with his family to the United States. There he assisted his father, who was a voice teacher, and began work at 21 as a répétiteur for Opera. A significant milestone was his appointment, aged 26, to assist at the Bayreuth ­Festival. Soon after, in 1987, he made his con- ducting debut in Oslo, before appearing in houses around the world. Since 2005 he has held another enduring role, as Music Director of Rome’s Orchestra dell’Accademia ­Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, which, in 2017, performed under his baton at New York’s , to great acclaim. A prolific recording artist, both as conductor and pianist, Sir Antonio Pappano has presented landmark BBC television programmes about opera. Among many honours, he received a knighthood in 2012 and was also made a Knight Grand Cross of Italy's Order of Merit. He became a Rolex Testimonee­ in 2017. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 26

YUJA WANG

pianist

In just a few years, the magnetic young concert pianist has conquered the hearts of classical music lovers worldwide. Born in Beijing in 1987, she started playing at the age of six and studied at the Beijing Conservatory, before moving to Canada. Winning the Aspen Music Festival’s con- certo competition at 15, her professional career began while she was still a student at the Curtis Institute of Music in . Her international breakthrough came in 2007 when she played Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. In 2011, on her solo recital debut at Carnegie Hall in New York, her playing of Liszt’s Sonata in B Minor was described by as “magisterial and dazzling”. Now appearing regularly with the great orchestras of the world, she is also a renowned international recitalist. With a range that extends from Bach to Bartók and beyond, she approaches her ever-expanding repertoire with a passion for creative discovery. Combining a supreme musical intelligence with brilliant technique, Yuja Wang enthralls audiences again and again, leaving critics searching for new superlatives. She became a Rolex Testimonee in 2009. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 27

HÉLÈNE GRIMAUD YUNDI ANOUSHKA SHANKAR

pianist pianist sitarist

The French concert pianist Hélène Grimaud, born in 1969, is brilliant, Born in 1982 in Chongqing, south-west China, the pianist Yundi A Rolex Testimonee since 2005, Anoushka Shankar is a renowned independent and risk-taking with even the most difficult compos­ had already revealed an exceptional musical talent before taking sitar player and composer. Daughter of the late , itions. She is known for her intense, individual interpretation, up the piano at the age of seven. As a student, he won a swath the sitar virtuoso and composer who was her teacher, and half-­ which can be both fierce and entrancing. A performer of breath- of prestigious international piano competitions, culminating in sister to singer-songwriter Norah Jones, she grew up between taking technical skill, she has played and recorded with many of his triumph as the youngest pianist ever to win the International the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. She made the world’s great orchestras, and is a successful recording artist. ­Chopin Piano Competition in 2000, when he was just 18. He her professional debut as a classical sitarist at age 13. By the age In addition to her work as a musician, she has written three auto- went on to study in Germany and made his United States concert of 20, she had received the first of many Grammy nominations. biographical books and is the co-founder of the Wolf Conserva- debut in 2003. Known especially as an exponent of ­Chopin, he As a solo artist she has played in prestigious venues around the tion Center in New York, among other charitable causes. Hélène has, alongside performing, become a formidable recording ­artist. world and has performed her father’s sitar concertos with a roll Grimaud became a Rolex Testimonee in 2009. He has been a Rolex Testimonee since 2008. call of great orchestras. A leading figure in world music, she explores the fertile ground between Indian and Western genres and is lauded for her innovative, experimental approach. ROLEX AND MUSIC ROLEX TESTIMONEES : 28

MICHAEL BUBLÉ

singer

International singing superstar Michael Bublé is fittingly referred to as the consummate entertainer. With his mesmerizing voice, contagious charisma and seemingly effortless style, he enchants audiences around the world. Born in Canada in 1975, he grew up listening to his grandfather’s jazz records and longed to be a singer. Inspired by this legacy, he worked hard, entering talent contests and touring small venues for several years. His break came in 2000 when he was engaged to perform at a wedding. He was introduced at the ceremony to renowned Canadian record producer David Foster – a meeting that marked the true beginning of his career. Three years later, his debut album was released. It shot up the international charts, to be followed by many more recordings. His repertoire consists of standards from the jazz age to the present day, as well as his own compositions. Whether on television, in arenas or before 65,000 ­people in stadiums around the world, Michael Bublé retains an atmosphere of intimacy and charm. He has won multiple accolades, including several Grammy Awards. He has been a Rolex Testimonee since 2006. ROLEX AND MUSIC DIGITAL PLATFORMS : 29

digital platforms

SUPPORTING INNOVATION

Rolex promotes musical excellence worldwide by supporting high-quality online access to today’s classical concerts, festivals, operas and performances through its partnerships with innovative digital platforms.

medici.t v opera online

The website medici.tv is the first and largest online Opera Online, the opera lovers’ website, is a collection of classical music, operas and ballets in ­comprehensive online operatic library available to the world. Offering live broadcasts from the most all. Its mission is to educate its readers by publishing prestigious venues, it contains a catalogue of over substantive content, including an encyclopedia on the 2,500 films available on demand by subscription, world of opera, Encyclopera, with almost 21,000 ref- consisting of concerts, operas, ballets and erence articles, a constantly growing number. Opera documentaries, as well as 150 live concerts each Online also publishes background multimedia mater­ year. A site created in 2008, Rolex has partnered ial on works, productions and artists, allowing users to medici.tv since 2010. share opinions and develop a community. Rolex is the founding partner of the site, created in 2010. medici.tv opera-online.com ROLEX AND MUSIC MENTORING : 30

American composer with his Peruvian mentored Dina El Wedidi, protégée Pauchi Sasaki, 2016-2017 2012-2013

FOSTERING the rolex mentor and protégé NEW TALENTS arts initiative Founded in 2002, the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts , violinist Pinchas Zukerman and composers ­Initiative aims to ensure that the world's artistic heritage is and Philip Glass – to iconic figures­ such as passed on to the next generation. It seeks out gifted young Brian Eno, Gilberto Gil and Youssou N’Dour. artists from around the world and brings them together Over the years, the Rolex mentoring programme has with artistic masters for a period of creative collaboration. evolved into an enriching dialogue between artists of The Arts Initiative today encompasses thedisciplines ­ ­different generations, cultures and disciplines, where both of architecture, dance, film, literature, music, theatre and rising talents and senior artists benefit from the interaction. visual arts. There is also a variable, or “open category”, “The mentor gets as much inspiration as the protégé,” says mentorship that can take place in other fields of the arts or former film mentor . in an interdisciplinary pursuit. The full benefits of the Mentor and Protégé Arts Some of the world’s greatest artists have served as men- ­Initiative extend far into the future, as many of the protégés tors over the years, including , Alejandro are already making a substantial impact on global culture. G. Iñárritu, William Forsythe, Peter Zumthor, Margaret Atwood and Sir Peter Hall. In music, mentors have ranged from the classical – conductor Sir Colin Davis, soprano https://www.rolex.org/en/rolex-mentor-protege ROLEX AND MUSIC MEDIA CONTACTS : 31

media contacts

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