Canadian soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan has been named one of the three recipients of the 2025 Polar Music Prize, one of the most prestigious honours in the music world. Hannigan, celebrated for her groundbreaking interpretations of contemporary classical music, joins legendary jazz pianist Herbie Hancock and iconic British rock band Queen as this year’s laureates.
The Sweden-based Polar Music Prize committee praised Hannigan for her ability to push artistic boundaries and broaden listeners’ horizons. "Her exceptional musicality and courage make her one of the world's foremost interpreters of contemporary classical music," the committee stated. The award, which comes with a prize of one million Swedish krona (approximately $141,650 CAD), will be presented at a ceremony in Stockholm on May 27.
Hannigan’s career has been defined by her fearless approach to both singing and conducting. Originally from Nova Scotia, she has become one of the leading voices in contemporary opera, originating roles in works by composers such as George Benjamin and Gerald Barry. Her transition into conducting began in 2011, and she has since taken on leadership roles with major orchestras, including the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, where she will serve as chief conductor starting in 2026.
Beyond her work on stage, Hannigan has received numerous accolades throughout her career. Her album Crazy Girl Crazy won a Grammy Award in 2018 for Best Solo Classical Album, and she has twice won Juno Awards in the classical album category. In recognition of her contributions to music, she was appointed a member of the Order of Canada in 2016.
Hannigan is only the second Canadian to receive the Polar Music Prize, following in the footsteps of Joni Mitchell, who won in 1996. She has cited Mitchell as an inspiration, particularly admiring her ability to use her voice freely and expressively across different musical genres.
A Prize with a Storied History
The Polar Music Prize was established in 1989 by Stig "Stikkan" Anderson, the Swedish music producer best known as ABBA’s manager and lyricist. Named after his Polar Music label, the award celebrates outstanding achievements in music across all genres. Past laureates include Paul McCartney, Metallica, Yo-Yo Ma, Ravi Shankar, and Renée Fleming, making Hannigan’s recognition a testament to her exceptional artistry.
Each year, the Polar Music Prize is awarded to individuals, groups, or institutions that have made a significant impact on the global music scene. The selection process involves public nominations as well as input from the International Music Council, a UNESCO-founded organization dedicated to promoting musical diversity.
Queen and Herbie Hancock Also Honoured
While Hannigan's win marks a major moment for Canadian classical music, she shares the 2025 honour with two other musical giants: Queen and Herbie Hancock.
Queen, known for their theatrical rock sound and legendary hits like Bohemian Rhapsody and We Will Rock You, were recognized for their "distinctive and instantly recognizable sound that no one else can emulate." The surviving members—Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon—expressed their gratitude, calling the award an "incredible honour."
Jazz legend Herbie Hancock was praised as a "jazz scientist" whose innovations have shaped not only jazz but also R&B, funk, and hip-hop. With a career spanning six decades, 14 Grammy Awards, and an Oscar for Best Original Score, Hancock’s influence has been profound. He joins a distinguished list of past jazz laureates, including Wayne Shorter, Sonny Rollins, and Dizzy Gillespie.
A Celebratory Moment for Canadian Music
For Hannigan, the Polar Music Prize represents both a career milestone and an affirmation of her fearless artistic choices. "I am deeply moved and humbled to receive this year’s Polar Music Prize," she said in a statement. "Thank you so much for including me in this incredible and inspiring group of laureates."
With her continued success as both a soprano and a conductor, Hannigan is cementing her place among the world’s most influential musicians. As she prepares to take the helm of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and continues to champion contemporary classical music, her Polar Music Prize win serves as a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to the art form.