Erzsébet Szőnyi

composer, singing teacher, choir conductor
Budapest, 25 April 1924 – Budapest, 28 December 2019
Full member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (2011–2019)
Her pedagogical and artistic (performing and creative) activities are inseparable from one another. Both branches of her professional life define her oeuvre, and the only difference
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Parallel Life Paths

overnmental award

Awarded by national government to recognize achievements of public, national significance.

An award established and granted by central government authorities.



The highest musical award granted by the Hungarian state in recognition of outstanding musical and performing arts achievements.



State award granted for outstanding composing, musical directing, and artistic activity.



Professional recognition awarded by the Minister of Education to teachers and university lecturers for outstanding educational, pedagogical, and special education work, as well as for significant scientific contributions supporting pedagogical practice.



One of the four highest Hungarian state awards is the Hungarian Order of Merit, which is granted in various grades to individuals who perform exemplary activities in culture, science, art, or their own field, in order to advance Hungary’’s interests and promote universal human values.



One of the most prestigious Hungarian state awards for the arts. The recipient is entitled to use the title “Outstanding Artist of Hungary” (short: “Outstanding Artist”). Only those who already hold the Meritorious Artist award and have held it for at least five years are eligible.



The highest Hungarian state decoration for the cultivation and preservation of Hungarian culture.



The top prize in the hierarchical system of art awards, granted to Kossuth Prize-winning artists over 65 who have created significant value in their artistic field. By law, no more than seventy artists may hold it simultaneously.