








28 Sep 2021
We are pleased to present a strong message about the power and presence of classical music throughout the pandemic as we announce the shortlists for this year's Royal Philharmonic Society Awards.
This year’s Awards are vibrant evidence of a profession that, faced with huge challenge, has never stopped raising people’s spirits when the nation needed it most. From star soloists including Nicola Benedetti, Elizabeth Llewellyn, Abel Selaocoe and Nicky Spence to unsung heroes and amateur musicians, the shortlists tell a story of tremendous creativity, connectivity and resilience in this most challenging of years.
Shortlists across 11 categories, each decided by independent panels, are revealed today. Already announced is the shortlist for an award set to be decided for the very first time by public vote. The Inspiration Award is newly introduced to celebrate non-professional ensembles who have likewise kept communities connected through the pandemic. Throughout September, the public has been voting for whom they feel should receive this award from a shortlist of six entities. Over 4000 votes have been received so far and voting is now closed.
The 2021 RPS Awards take place at Wigmore Hall, London, at 7.30pm on Monday 1 November. The event will be hosted by BBC Radio 3 presenter Katie Derham and RPS Chief Executive James Murphy, and trophies presented by RPS Chairman John Gilhooly. Tickets are £16 – 30, a vastly reduced price this year enabling more music-lovers and music-makers to get together and join in the festivities. As well as revealing the winners of all this year’s awards, the presentation will feature live musical performances from special guest artists, including some of this year’s nominees. Tickets are going fast. For full details of the event and how to book, visit this page of our website.
The RPS Awards will also be filmed, and the stream will be available to watch on our website from Tuesday 9 November. Our partners BBC Radio 3 will also be covering the celebrations in a special broadcast, giving you the opportunity to discover more of the music of the winners and shortlistees, at 7.30pm on Monday 8 November.
RPS Chief Executive James Murphy says: ‘We are so pleased to reveal this year’s RPS Awards shortlists, collectively representing the astonishing hard work, generosity and goodwill of musicians throughout the pandemic. In current times, look no further for a good news story about people nationwide giving the best of themselves to support others. Here is proof for anyone who yet needs it of the invaluable, rousing role that musicians can play in the nation’s recovery. We are so grateful to this year's 60 independent panellists who dedicated their time and care to choosing the shortlists.
Our only disappointment this year is that no women are shortlisted for the Conductor Award. Practically no nominations were made for women conductors which we discovered was due to so few ensembles giving them opportunities during the pandemic. We are optimistic to see more brilliant women conductors getting work again now things are gently easing, but none of us should forget diversity even in challenging times. We are heartened that conductor Hilary Campbell is at least recognised for her work with Bristol Choral Society, shortlisted for this year’s Inspiration Award.’
Chamber-Scale Composition
supported by Boosey & Hawkes in memory of Tony Fell
Conductor
supported by BBC Music Magazine
Ensemble
supported by Tarisio
Impact
supported by ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
Inspiration
supported by Decca Classics
Instrumentalist
supported by Help Musicians in its centenary year
Large-Scale Composition
supported by The Boltini Trust
Opera and Music Theatre
supported by Cazenove
Series and Events
supported by PRS for Music
Singer
supported by Jenny Hodgson
Storytelling
supported by Lark Music
Young Artist
supported by Sir Simon and Victoria, Lady Robey OBE
Follow all the #RPSAwards news @RoyalPhilSoc on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
If you are a member of the press and would like further information about the RPS Awards, please contact Rebecca Driver Media Relations: victoria@rdmr.co.uk