For an outstandingly imaginative and engaging large-scale work receiving its premiere UK performance to a live or digital audience. 

Katherine Balch – whisper concerto 

‘whisper concerto by Katherine Balch unveils a new language for the cello within its distinctive sound-world. Katherine challenges conventions of virtuosity and form. She finds a fresh, mesmerising balance between soloist and orchestra. Cellist Zlatomir Fung and the BBC Philharmonic embraced its assured textures and masterful writing.'

 Also shortlisted:

• Ben Nobuto – Hallelujah Sim.
• Hans Abrahamsen – Concerto for Horn and Orchestra

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

Alexis Paterson – Senior Music Programme Producer, University of Oxford
Marie Schreer – Co-Artistic Director, Riot Ensemble / Section Leader, Second Violins, The Hallé
Richard Baker – Composer / Professor of Composition, Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Shirley J. Thompson – Composer / Professor of Composition and Performance, University of Westminster
Stephan Meier – Composer / Artistic Director, Birmingham Contemporary Music Group