Musical Gold
Bespoke creations have always been at the heart of Maison Köchert’s artistry. And when a musical theme is the inspiration behind a custom-made piece, our hearts can’t help but beat a little faster!
Julia Obermüller, who designs frequently for Maison Köchert, created the ceremonial rector’s chain commissioned by the MUK – the Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna.
As the central element of the Rector’s magnificent insignia of office, the geographical shape of the city of Vienna is revealed, with sound waves radiating outward from its center to form the chain links on either side. There can be no music without sound waves, as speech, singing and tones all rely on this physical phenomenon. The oscillation of the waves ensures not only the worldwide success of music — but also of the MUK graduates who carry that beauty out onto the world stage.
The Alban Berg Ring, designed by Julia Landsiedl, was created according to a similar principle. An audio track by Alban Berg served as the inspiration for this ring’s distinctly clear design. Created by A. E. Köchert on behalf of the Alban Berg Foundation, the honorary ring was awarded for the first time, in 2021, to Friedrich Cerha.
In 2023, following Cerha’s passing, a sealed letter that he had left behind was opened and — in a process similar to that used for the renowned Iffland Ring – it was revealed that he had chosen the Swiss composer, conductor and oboist, Heinz Holliger, as the worthy new successor and bearer of the Alban Berg Ring.