For the outstanding quality and scope of the performances, presented digitally or for a live audience, and the work in any context of a group of musicians, no fewer than three, in the UK.

Dunedin Consort

‘Scotland’s Dunedin Consort have blazed with productivity and positivity this year. They keep finding ways to cast fresh light on Baroque traditions. There have been nationwide concerts, digital adventures for children, and Errollyn Wallen’s thrilling opera Dido’s Ghost. They even made headlines, commandeering a fishing boat to get safely home from performing in locked-down France.’

Also shortlisted:

• Apartment House
• Nevis Ensemble

The 2021 shortlist for Ensemble was decided by an independent panel drawn from across the music profession comprising:

Camilla King, Head of Programming, Cheltenham Music Festival
Daniel Pioro, Violinist
Jessica Duchen, Writer
Jonathan Groves, Artist Manager
Rakhi Singh, Artistic Director, Manchester Collective