For an outstandingly imaginative and engaging large-scale work receiving its premiere UK performance.

Mark-Anthony Turnage – Festen

‘Contemporary opera on an epic scale, Festen by Mark-Anthony Turnage sees a composer at the top of his game writing for The Royal Ballet and Opera. The libretto by Lee Hall is brought to life with vivid dexterity, tackling devastating themes with tenderness and dark humour. The score bursts with musical invention, holding audiences rapt from one electrifying moment to another, and setting this powerful piece of theatre alight.'

 Also shortlisted:

• David Fennessy – Bog Cantata
• Golfam Khayam – I am not a tale to be told

The 2026 shortlist for the RPS Large-Scale Composition Award was decided by an independent panel drawn from across the music profession comprising:

Alex Ho – Composer
Andrew Burke – Chief Executive and Artistic Director, London Sinfonietta
Anna Appleby – Composer
James Hardie – Chief Executive, Scottish Ensemble
Rosenna East – Managing Director, Sinfonia of London