Percussionist and composer David Hildebrandt is honoured for his virtuosic work with new music and his efforts to push the boundaries of what rhythm can be.
David Hildebrandt is among the recipients of this year’s honorary awards from the Wilhelm Hansen Foundation. He receives DKK 200,000 in recognition of his uncompromising work with new music and multi-percussion, as well as his ability to challenge conventional ideas about rhythm.
According to the foundation’s board, Hildebrandt possesses a “mind-expanding musicianship” that continually challenges the limits of what is possible. As a musician and educator, he has also developed new methods for understanding, communicating and mastering even the most complex rhythmic structures.
The award will be presented at a ceremony at Dansehallerne in Copenhagen on 18 November 2026. This year’s other recipients include composer Anders Nordentoft, dancer and choreographer Cher Geurtze, and stage designer Christian Friedländer.