Page 156 - RPS Awards 2024 Coverage Book

help and empower people affected by the criminal justice system and
in marginalized areas of society.

The Ensemble Award went to the BBC Singers, following their year
of incredible resilience and artistry in the face of devastating cuts. One
of the choir's tenors, Nicky Spence, also received the Singer
Award — and performed a Noël Coward number alongside
pianist Dylan Perez.

"Too often this year, the story of classical music has been one of
funding cuts and shrinking provision," said John Gilhooly, Chairman
of the RPS. "Tonight we present a true picture of classical music’s
quality, impact and radiance across the UK."

"This year’s RPS Awards winners are representative of music-makers
nationwide, who – in challenging times – keep giving the very best of
themselves for the benefit of others. We are proud to shine a light on

their achievements, and hope it leads to greater recognition and pride
for all that they collectively do."

The full list of recipients includes:

Chamber-Scale Composition: Laurence Osborn – TOMB!
Conductor: François-Xavier Roth
Ensemble: BBC Singers

Gamechanger: Sara Lee and the Irene Taylor Trust
Impact: Call of the Mountains – Clare Johnston and Drake Music
Scotland
Inspiration: Derwent Brass
Instrumentalist: Jasdeep Singh Degun – sitar

Large-Scale Composition: Kaija Saariaho – Innocence
Opera and Music Theatre: Chornobyldorf – Huddersfield
Contemporary Music Festival
Series and Events: Manchester Classical
Singer: Nicky Spence – tenor

Storytelling: Quartet – Leah Broad
Young Artist: Lotte Betts-Dean – mezzo soprano