Bryce Dessner, Grammy Award-winning classical composer and guitarist with indie-rock group The National, receives the Samuel Beckett Medal from the College Historical Society of Trinity College Dublin (‘the Hist’).
The Hist, founded in 1770, is officially recognised as the oldest student society in the world. Previous members range from Bram Stoker, Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde, to Leo Varadkar, Mary Robinson and Sally Rooney. Aiming to promote discourse and debate in Ireland and globally, the Hist recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public discourse. The Samuel Beckett Medal recognises the specific and unique contributions that artists, and art, make to public discourse, with past recipients including Joan Baez, Patti Smith and George R.R. Martin.
Hazel Mulkeen, the Hist, comments:
Art plays a crucial role in shaping the public consciousness, and has always been a crucial force for social change. In recognition of his incredible contribution to music and culture, as a composer, guitarist, and creative visionary, the College Historical Society is proud to present Bryce Dessner with the Samuel Beckett Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Public Discourse Through the Arts.
