For the outstanding quality and scope of the performances and work in any context of a solo performer on any instrument in the UK between January 2018 and June 2019.

• Alina Ibragimova, violin
  
• Jean Guihen-Queyras, cello
  
• Mahan Esfahani, harpsichord

This year's shortlist for Instrumentalist was decided by an independent panel drawn from across the music profession comprising:

• Alasdair Tait, Chief Executive & Artistic Director, YCAT / cellist
• Colin Currie, percussionist
• Helen Wallace, Programme Director, Kings Place
• Jessica Cottis, conductor
• Svend McEwan-Brown, Artistic Director, East Neuk Festival