For the outstanding quality and scope of the performances to a live or digital audience, and the work in any context of a group of musicians, no fewer than three, in the UK.

Paraorchestra

‘Paraorchestra should be the Pride of Britain. They’re inspirational in their care and creativity bringing together disabled and non-disabled musicians. Those musicians are pioneering how orchestras and audiences interact. They’re invigorating concert halls with thrilling experiences, like ‘Trip the Light Fantastic’ at Bristol Beacon and ‘The Virtuous Circle’ at the BBC Proms. Here’s to Charles Hazlewood who initiated it. Moreover, here’s to its disabled musicians, showing us all a way forward.'

Also shortlisted:

• CBSO Chorus
• Scottish Chamber Orchestra

The 2025 shortlist for the RPS Ensemble Award was decided by an independent panel drawn from across the music profession comprising:

Amarins Wierdsma – Violin, Barbican Quartet
Dominic Parker – Director, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
Elise Brown – Director, Revere Arts
Sarah Bardwell – Managing Director, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Stephen Maddock – Principal, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire