David Kiefer

David Kiefer has won the 17th International Gottfried Silbermann Organ Competition. In the final round on 13 September 2025 at Freiberg Cathedral, the 28-year-old church musician from Germany took first place ahead of Jannik Gerdes (Germany) and Jakub Moneta (Poland). At the same time David Kiefer is the ECHO Young Organist of the Year 2026!

For the first time, the PURPLE PATH Prize introduced an additional audience award, which went to Hanna Cho (South Korea).

Henry Fairs, chair of this year’s jury, said: “This year’s Silbermann Competition has now come to an end. The level of playing was exceptionally high, and it was a privilege and a pleasure to share these days with outstanding young participants, an international jury, a colourful and engaging programme, and the most beautiful organ sounds.”

Along with a total of €16,000 in prize money, the winners will have opportunities to perform on Silbermann organs and other famous historic instruments across Germany and beyond.