In 1813, the Philharmonic Society was founded by a group of musicians who set out to establish a lasting performance culture and repertory, playing a central role in making the UK an essential destination for classical music. This award – first presented in 2019 – celebrates those who in unique and contemporary ways continue to break new ground in classical music. It is specially presented by the Board and Council of the RPS to an initiative, individual, group or organisation for their inspirational and transformative work. In 2026, we proudly present this award to:

Jacob Collier

Presenting the Award onstage to Jacob, RPS Chair Angela Dixon read the following citation:

'Jacob Collier is a true 21st Century gamechanger. Singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, producer and educator, he goes beyond traditional definitions and – in doing so – shows millions that they can too. From his first homemade videos that wowed the internet, he said: look what music you can make, even in your bedroom, with the simplest means. Fast-forward to his recent tours: rousing the O2 and packed stadiums worldwide to sing their hearts out, he inspires vast crowds to discover and embrace their own creativity.

His musicianship and virtuosity are wondrous to behold. Yet, in everything he does – from his Grammy-winning albums to his recent adventure with the Britten Sinfonia – he casts open the inner-workings of music, showing us how it’s made. He demystifies what music is, and transforms perceptions of who gets to make it.

As his star rises, with literally millions of followers online, Jacob authentically retains the wide-eyed wonder of his own first forays into music. Here we have a young British artist who proudly comes from a classical tradition, he is the son of a classical musician, and today takes the building blocks of classical music to a massive international audience, inviting them all to play.

He illuminates the musician in all of us, and shows us the sheer joy and community we can unlock when we make music together.'