Tamás Vásáry

pianist

Debrecen, 11 August 1933 – Budapest, 5 February 2026

Full member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (2023–2026)

Tamás Vásáry was born on 11 August 1933 in Debrecen into a prominent intellectual family. His father, József Vásáry (1890–1975), was a politician and member of Parliament. His

Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen

The highest state award, recognizing the most outstanding and exceptional merits in the interest of Hungary, distinguished life achievements, and significant contributions on an international level.

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2014

governmental award

Artist of the Nation

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.

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2009

governmental award

Commander’s Cross with Star of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary

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.

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2003

governmental award

Medal of Merit of the President of the Republic

Awarded by the President of the Republic of Hungary to a Hungarian or foreign citizen who has achieved outstanding merits through their life and professional work, particularly in any field of science, youth education, support of the disadvantaged and underprivileged, protection of the natural environment, as well as through artistic creation and performance or public service.

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2001

governmental award