Wallen, Bryars and Panufnik receive prestigious achievement awards at the annual classical music awards that saw Gavin Higgins win Best Orchestral Composition for his horn concerto
Eleven composers were recognised across multiple categories at the Ivor’s Classical Music Awards last night. Master of the King’s Music Errollyn Wallen received this year’s Academy Fellowship, Roxanna Panufnik’s prolific output recognised in the Outstanding Works Collection, and Gavin Bryars celebrated in the Innovation Award.
Highlights from the nominated categories included Gavin Higgins win for the bejewelled Horn Concerto he wrote for horn player Ben Goldscheider. Premiered by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the work was later reprised by the now defunct London Chamber Orchestra. It’s scheduled for performance by the Ulster Orchestra in February 2025.
Elsewhere Dan Jones’ won the Sound Art category for the Factory International commission Each Tiny Drop – a sonic accompaniment to Risham Syed’s interactive water ritual on the banks of the River Medlock premiered at the Manchester International Festival.
Rebecca Saunders ‘The Mouth’ secured the Best Small Chamber Composition Award, performed by Juliet Fraser and Newton Armstrong at the Aldeburgh Festival 2023.
The Best Chamber Ensemble Composition award went to Laurence Osborn for his electrifying work for strings, percussion and piano ‘TOMB!’, commissioned by and premiered at Norfolk & Norwich Festival, with additional performances at Cheltenham Festival and Kings Place, by 12 Ensemble and GBSR Duo. The judges praised the piece highlighting “a masterful blend of the old and new, where tradition is re-envisioned with intelligence and charisma, paying homage to the past without ever falling into mere imitation”.
The full list of winners is available via the Ivors Website.
The Ivors offers a singular experience. A welcoming and nurturing atmosphere like-minded creatives gather to honour the achievements of their peers and colleagues. The positivity is contagious, and the shared spirit of curiosity and boldness has a surprisingly revitalising effect on the spirit—even for those simply observing.
It’s hardly surprising that such an empowering energy fills the air. A composer’s mindset is rooted in humility and openness, tempered by a quiet, unwavering resolve. Craftspeople of alternative and distinct musical languages are often referred to in the third person, but rarely find themselves in the spotlight. When they do, these otherwise introspective artists radiate warmth and optimism. Skeptical or uncertain onlookers leave with a renewed sense of vigour and purpose, regardless of their discipline or craft. Composers inspire in ways they may not even realise.
