Pro Musicis International Award
For over 50 years Pro Musicis has been auditioning concert artists in Paris and New York City to select musicians for the Pro Musicis International Award. A jury of distinguished musicians in each city bases their decisions on two main criteria: high level of performance demonstrating artistic inspiration and passion for social outreach.
Those selected join the prestigious family of Pro Musicis artists. They represent a wide range of instruments and nationalities. Pro Musicis presents them in concert halls and community service projects. Most become soloists and members of chamber ensembles or orchestras. Others become conductors or teach at conservatories and university music schools. Some have extensive discographies, organize festivals, or become entrepreneurs and founders of creative non-profits in service of society.
Over its history, the work of Pro Musicis has drawn admiration, support and assistance from towering figures in the world of music—Daniel Barenboim, Pierre Boulez, Byron Janis, Mstislav Rostropovich and Gunther Schuller — to name a few. A number of Pro Musicis artists have joined their ranks. Martin Bookspan, voice of Live from Lincoln Center, said: “Discover Pro Musicis artists—extraordinary performers who, already making their mark, are sure to enliven the concert world of the 21st century.”
The Father Eugène Merlet Award for Community Service
Read about the Merlet Award and its recipients here.
Francis of Assisi Award
From time to time, Pro Musicis confers The Francis of Assisi Award to individuals in recognition of their distinguished service to society and exemplary leadership in the public arena.
GUNTHER SHULLER
For outstanding service to Pro Musicis and the world of music
Presented by Father Eugene Merlet
March 29, 1996
Gala Concert at Wellesley College, Massachusetts
JACK RUDIN
For contributing to the well-being of New York City in a singular way
Presented by Michael Hegarty, President and C.O.O. of Equitable
February 10, 1998
Award Dinner at the University Club, New York City
EUGENE MERLET
For his indefatigable dedication to Pro Musicis and the sharing of music
Presented by Byron Janis, concert pianist
February 10, 1998
Award Dinner at the University Club, New York City
SERGE BELLANGER
For exemplary service in New York’s international banking community
Presented by Michel Avenas, President of Vivendi North America
February 16, 2000
Award Dinner at the University Club, New York City
Ambassador WILLIAM H. LUERS
For a distinguished 31-year career in the U.S.A. Foreign Service
Presented by Jack Rudin
February 16, 2000
Award Dinner at the University Club, New York City
BEVERLY SILLS
For world class leadership to the arts in New York City
Presented by Jack Rudin and Father Merlet
December 4, 2002
French Consulate in New York City
BYRON JANIS
For his contribution to the world of music
Presented by Serge Bellanger and Father Merlet
April 11, 2006
Award Dinner at French Consulate in New York City
Ambassador WILLIAM J. VANDEN HEUVEL
For a lifetime of public service
Presented by Raymond Lamontagne and Father Merlet
April 11, 2006
Award Dinner at French Consulate in New York City