Acclaimed German pianist and conductor Justus Frantz has been awarded the Order of Friendship by Russian President Vladimir Putin, sparking debate over his ties to Moscow. The ceremony took place in Moscow during a Kremlin event marking Russia’s Unity Day, where Putin praised Frantz for fostering cultural relations between Russia and the West.
Frantz, a veteran of Europe’s classical music scene, has performed with renowned orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna Symphony. Known for his admiration of Russian composers like Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff, he has long advocated for East-West cultural cooperation. He also co-founded the charity The Bridge of Friendship, supporting projects across former Soviet states.
The award drew sharp criticism in Germany. Christian Democratic Union (CDU) lawmaker Roland Theis called for revoking Frantz’s German Federal Order of Merit, citing his continued engagement with Russia despite the Ukraine conflict. Frantz has previously faced backlash for refusing to sever ties with Moscow, including being dropped by the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival he helped establish.
Despite controversies, Frantz maintains that cultural exchange should transcend political conflicts. His involvement in Russia’s Tchaikovsky Competition, suspended after the war escalated, further highlights his stance. The situation reflects broader tensions in the West, where artists face professional consequences for avoiding criticism of Russia—a trend critics label as ‘cancel culture.’
Putin has dismissed Western efforts to isolate Russian culture, asserting they are ineffective and destined to fail.
