Announced 8 May 2012
supported by BBC Music Magazine

Claudio Abbado

Every one of the infrequent but annual appearances by this conductor produces a performance of indelible, life-changing moment. His extraordinary, revelatory concerts with the Lucerne Festival Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall in 2011 changed perceptions, and raised the bar once again on what it is possible for a group of musicians to achieve. The Award goes to Claudio Abbado.

Other Shortlisted Nominations in the Category

Gianandrea Noseda
Donald Runnicles

Conductor Jury

Edward Blakeman (Chair)
Stephen Carpenter
Heather Duncan
Geoffrey Owen
Helen Wallace