As of: February 5, 2024 4:40 p.m
Thomas Quasthoff has won three Grammys in his career: in 2000, 2004 and 2006 for best classical vocal solo. “It had an incredible meaning back then – but not anymore,” reveals the singer in an interview.
Mr. Quasthoff, what significance did these awards have for you personally?
Thomas Quasthoff: They were very important back then because it’s not really common for concert singers to collect a lot of Grammys. Back when I got it, it had an incredible meaning, no question about it. Not today.
Why?
Quasthoff: That was a period in my life, and now I do my jazz and readings – I definitely won’t get a Grammy for that. That was a different time, but that’s all good.
What significance did the Grammy have for you as an artist in the classical music scene?
Quasthoff: A Grammy is like the Oscar, that’s tough. In America in particular, this is incredibly noted, much more so than in Europe.
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How does an announcement like this work in the classic categories?
Quasthoff: When I won the first Grammy, I was in Boston and I was walking up the stairs at the artists’ entrance to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and a worker told me I had won the award. The second time I was in New York was when I found out. Then a friend of mine who was playing in the orchestra at the event in Los Angeles called me and said, “Tommy, you won a Grammy!” And the third time I don’t even know. But they look nice in my showcase. If visitors come, you can show them off. But I’m not bursting with pride.
Is it perhaps a new goal to win a Grammy in the jazz category?
Quasthoff: Nope. I don’t think I’ll make any more CDs. Why? It doesn’t sell at all.
The interview conducted Julia Westlake.
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NDR Culture | Journal conversation | 02/05/2024 | 4:30 p.m