Beatrice Schirmer was chosen from nominations received from orchestras across the UK. Beatrice, who has been with the Hallé for 19 years, was presented with her award onstage at the Hallé’s concert at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester - and live on BBC Radio 3 - on Wednesday 9 November. She receives a cheque for £1000 and will keep for one year the Salomon Prize Trophy – a soft-ground etching of Salomon made by William Daniell in 1810.

Beatrice was nominated by her fellow musicians and the Hallé’s management, not just for her considerable skills as a member of the orchestra’s double bass section, but for the extraordinary range of other activities which she has embraced and enriched in almost two decades with the orchestra.


The Salomon Prize citation from the RPS and ABO:

“Double bassist Beatrice Schirmer has been at the heart of the life of the Hallé for nearly twenty years. She has always given her time freely to support the individual players as well as the orchestral community. As a union representative she ensures clear communication between the players and administration as well as making sure she is always across any current issues which affect the rchestra. Beatrice is a founder member of the new music ensemble ALEAtronic and has an indefatigable passion and dedication for the Hallé’s education work. This was highlighted in last season’s community project in Clowne, Derbyshire for which she produced a full musical score as well as helping with technical and sound production. Beatrice Schirmer is an asset to her colleagues, to the Hallé and the profession. It is with great pleasure that the first Salomon Prize is awarded to her.”

Many thanks to David and Selina Marks for supporting the award.