Local accordion player awarded 2018 Central Switzerland Cultural Prize

Last March the members of the board of the Foundation of the Central Switzerland of the Cultural Prize decided to honour 72-year-old Hans Hassler for his performances on the accordion. Last Saturday the prize was awarded to him by Stephan Schleiss, the member of the cantonal government responsible for education and culture.

As can be seen in the photograph Hassler, who was born in the canton of Graubünden but who now lives in Hagendorn, has a distinctive appearance with his full beard and glasses balanced on the end of his nose. It was mentioned how the musician was capable of creating the most unusual of sounds from his chosen instrument, which he is often asked to play at theatres or at intervals in reading sessions.

He was awarded the prize, which comes with CHF 25,000, for the particularly creative way he plays, not least, as mentioned, at numerous theatre performances and other cultural events across central Switzerland. He was also praised by the foundation for his insatiable curiosity and unique flair for musicality.

Following Schliess’ awarding the prize, further praise of Hassler was lavished on him by Patrik Landolt, the producer and publisher at Intakt Records of Zurich.

On this occasion, musical entertainment was provided by Claudio and Werner Hassler, Jürgen Kupke and Julian Sartorius though those present were also treated to a performance by the prize-winner himself.