Hungarian Pianist András Schiff Receives Knighthood

Hungarian pianist András Schiff received a knighthood this month from the British state for his contributions to music.

Schiff, who left Hungary in 1979, received the honour on June 14th, the day of the Queen’s “official” birthday celebrations, when titles are given out. This follows on from the prestigious gold medal the musician received late last year from the London Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Schiff has become noted in recent years for his strong criticisms of Viktor Orbán’s government, and has expressed doubts about ever returning to Hungary. Schiff partially ascribes his reluctance to a threat he received on the internet from someone who said they would cut off his hands if he returned.