Wolfgang Muthspiel Awarded the Austrian Cross of Honour
Internationally renowned guitarist and composer Wolfgang Muthspiel has received the Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, First Class. One of Austria’s highest distinctions, the award recognises his outstanding artistic work and lasting contribution to the international jazz scene.
The award was presented on 21 October 2026 by Theresia Niedermüller. Music journalist and radio presenter Albert Hosp delivered the laudatory speech, while trumpeter Mario Rom provided the music for the ceremony.
The honour has special significance for JAM MUSIC LAB. Wolfgang Muthspiel has been connected to our university for ten years through his work as a jury member for the Ö1 Jazz Scholarship. With his experience, artistic vision and attentive ear, he helps select promising young jazz musicians for a two-year scholarship at JAM MUSIC LAB and a professional album production.
In his acceptance speech, Muthspiel described music as an inner space created through composition and improvisation—a space that listeners and fellow musicians can enter together. He also spoke about the dedication behind an artistic career: “Talent is wonderful. But fortunately, I also enjoy practising.”
For Muthspiel, jazz is built on listening, awareness and trust in the moment. Its magic appears when musicians have the courage to leave familiar ground and explore the unknown together.
We warmly congratulate Wolfgang Muthspiel on this important distinction and thank him for his long-standing connection to JAM MUSIC LAB and the Ö1 Jazz Scholarship.
