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