JERUSALEM (AP) – Israeli-American violinist Itzhak Perlman has been awarded this year’s “Jewish Nobel” for his accomplishments as a musician, teacher and advocate for the disabled, organizers of the $1 million prize announced Monday.
The Genesis Prize is given each year to an individual who has achieved professional success, contributed to humanity and shown a strong commitment to Jewish causes and the state of Israel.
Perlman said he was “humbled” to be recognized not only for his personal accomplishments, but also his commitment to his Jewish identity.
“I have always been very proud of my Jewish heritage, which has greatly influenced my music, my world view, and my work as an advocate for individuals whom society often leaves behind,” he said in a statement issued by the prize organizers.
Perlman, 70, has won 16 Grammys, including a lifetime achievement award in 2008, and played the violin solo in John Williams’ Oscar-winning soundtrack for the 1993 film “Schindler’s List.” He has performed with or conducted the world’s top symphony orchestras, and has been a regular guest at White House events. Last month, he received the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.