Royal Philharmonic Society
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200 years at the heart of music. If you love classical music, we invite you to become an RPS Member and join us in supporting what makes Britain 'philharmonic'.
London
Joined March 2010
The 2025 #RPSAwards shortlists are revealed! Congratulations to all this year's shortlistees, who represent so many outstanding musical individuals, groups and initiatives inspiring communities across the UK.
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Expressing solidarity with @ShekuKM and family in response to the appalling racism he is facing. As a positive, thoughtful and important role model in classical music and beyond, we respect and value his wide-ranging contributions to society and urge others to do the same.
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Like everyone, we're shocked and sad to hear the news about the @BBCSingers. Just last week, they were recognised as one of the UK's leading ensembles at the #RPSAwards for ' setting new standards in choral music, refreshing their scope through exciting partnerships. 1/3.
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We are so pleased today to award Honorary Membership of the RPS to Dame Sarah Connolly (@spconnolly) in recognition of her outstanding services to music - presented on her return to perform @wigmore_hall with pianist Malcolm Martineau by our Chair John Gilhooly OBE
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We are very sorry to share the news that 26-year-old composer Lucy Hale (@LHaleComposer) has died. Click below to read our tribute in full to her. (1/4).
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For his 'shining achievements, introducing millions to orchestral music who may otherwise never encounter it', we are proud to present the RPS Gold Medal to the much-loved composer and conductor John Williams. #RPSAwards (2/3)
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We are tremendously sorry to hear of the death of the great soprano Jessye Norman who, in 2018, received the RPS' highest honour, our Gold Medal. She was indisputably an icon and her treasured recordings will rouse hearts for many years to come.
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We are sorry to hear of the death of Maurizio Pollini, a veritable colossus of piano playing. What an extraordinary career he had. He remains one of the great RPS Award winners for The Pollini Project charting the transformation of keyboard music over the centuries.
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Congratulations to the winner of the RPS Instrumentalist Award: @NickyBenedetti. This year, Nicky has 'exceeded every possible aspect of her calling as an artist, educator and advocate, giving exhilarating performances and using her influence with such positivity.' #RPSAwards
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We pay tribute to a true musical colossus, the great Harrison Birtwistle, who has sadly died. A remarkable five-time RPS Award winner, his music shook the earth. There was force and potency in every note he wrote. We will listen in awe to his works for decades to come.
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Last night @wigmore_hall, the renowned viol player, conductor, and champion of historical music Jordi Savall was made an Honorary Member of the RPS in recognition of his outstanding services to music and was met with a standing ovation from the Wigmore Hall audience!👏👏
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What a #coronation and what music! Stupendously, exultingly, loving performed, making every moment shine. How proud as a nation we should be of our brilliant musicians and our wondrous musical heritage.
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A true role model for young classical musicians, and an artist whose passion and sound inspires a global audience, @ShekuKM completes the shortlist for the Young Artists Award #RPSAwards @enticottmusic
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Congratulations and admiration to all those whose commitment to music is recognised in the New Years Honours List, among them a CBE for John Gilhooly, Director of @wigmore_hall and our RPS Chairman, for his tireless positive advocacy and action through these testing times.
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We are sad to hear of the death of a musical icon, the great Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho. She made exquisite music at the frontier of imagination, bold and uncompromising, yet entrancing and dream-like. Let's fill the airwaves and concert venues with her extraordinary sound.
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'The gender of a conductor is of no importance anymore. The musical world is perfectly open and willing to embrace female conductors. There is no reason for girls not to go into conducting. We are ready.' #ConductingInspo from @esapekkasalonen. #Equal #WomenConductors @BatonAlice
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We are delighted to announce that @HarrietWybor joins the RPS as our new General Manager this August. Through strategic roles at PRS and OUP, Harriet has been a devoted advocate and support for composers, fostering opportunities, commissions, and fruitful partnerships nationwide.
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The RPS Young Artist Award goes to @TheHExperiment. The Hermes Experiment 'embody pure, limitless creativity. They show us – in their unique recitals and debut disc – all the joy, adventure and reward that comes from commissioning a cosmos of composers.' #RPSAwards
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We are thrilled to introduce you to the 2020-21 #RPSComposers! . @alexpaxtonyeah @AyannaWJ @James_B_Wilson @JonathanWoolgar @LHaleComposer @RutaVitkauskai1 @sylvlim . #NewMusic
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The RPS Ensemble Award goes to @BBCSingers for the 'astonishing quality, style and imagination they've invested in their endeavours, from innovative associations to educational ventures. Here’s how to do it: whatever life casts your way, come out singing!' #RPSAwards
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We also warmly welcome to our advisory Council Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason @thekannehmasons who, having nurtured an astonishing musical family, now dedicates so much time and imagination to being an ardent advocate and activist for music education.
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The RPS Large-Scale Composition Award goes to @DaniHoward6 for her Trombone Concerto. Written for the @liverpoolphil and star soloist @pete_moore_, this is 'a much-needed new masterpiece for the trombone, sure to attain a lasting place at the heart of its repertory.' #RPSAwards
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Here is John Williams sharing some words with us on receiving the #RPSGoldMedal, as well as a very special message from his close friend and colleague, Director Steven Spielberg.
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Apparently it's been 20 years since a classical music documentary was on @BBCOne primetime. Seize the moment, gather the whole family, and relish together @thekannehmasons show when it airs this Sunday. It's full to the rafters of hope, love and fabulous music.
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Congratulations to @DunedinConsort who receive the RPS Ensemble Award for such 'productivity and positivity casting new light on Baroque traditions, with nationwide concerts, digital adventures for children, and @ErrollynWallen's thrilling opera Dido’s Ghost.' #RPSAwards
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How sad to hear Anthony Payne has died, so soon after his beloved Jane Manning. He kindly let proceeds from his ingenious elaboration of Elgar 3 come to the RPS to support other composers. Now let's all listen beyond that sublime work to his many other gems. Long may they last.
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We dearly appeal to @DCMS to resolve this matter: 40,000 choirs nationwide have worked hard for months to plan safe singing in line with the road map, adhering to the government's own scientific research last year for what is safe. Let the people sing!.
We've contacted @DCMS urgently for an explanation about why singing indoors has been singled out in the performing arts guidance for England. We've also updated our guidance tool with the latest rules for vocal & instrumental groups in all four UK nations:
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Tonight we proudly presented RPS Honorary Membership to one of classical music's greatest broadcasters, writers and storytellers Sir Humphrey Burton, at the #AldeburghFestival on @bbcradio3 - thank you @brittenpearsarts @BBCNOW.
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These are tremendous artists. We dearly hope the BBC and we as a sector will continue to wholeheartedly embrace their brilliance as freelancers. Let's not forget this poignant moment when they were there for us all: 3/3.
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Lucky us! We are delighted to share that composer, singer-songwriter, pianist, and all-round much-loved creative force and musical treasure @ErrollynWallen CBE has joined our advisory Council.
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Dear friends, it's our 207th birthday!🎂🥳🎻. We were born #OTD in 1813, when a group of musicians determined to establish a series of orchestral concerts in London. Back then, there was no permanent symphony orchestra or music society - and look how far we've come today. Hooray!
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The RPS Large-Scale Composition Award goes to Gavin Higgins @gavhiggins for his Concerto Grosso for Brass Band and Orchestra. Brought to life by @TredegarBand and @BBCNOW, this is a rousing, visionary 'love letter to the bands in which Gavin found his musical calling.' #RPSAwards
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Superb in Gerald Barry’s Canada @bbcproms, in Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg @TheRoyalOpera, and utterly unforgettable as Hamlet @glyndebourne @brettdeanmusic, Allan Clayton @fatboyclayton is the worthy WINNER of the Singer award #RPSMusicAwards @Maestro_Arts
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Speechless at the news that opera hero and genius Graham Vick CBE has died. We are so proud to have presented him RPS Honorary Membership in 2016 for his work putting communities at the heart of sensational opera. We must all strive to follow his example and continue his mission.
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Here's an #IntrepidMusician you may have spotted, singing, on your Twitter feed. Tenor @AlexAldren, who originally trained as a doctor, has now returned to work for @NHSuk to help fight COVID-19. We're so grateful to Alex for taking time to say a few words, specially for the RPS.
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We are thrilled to announce the eight composers joining the 2023 RPS Composers programme! Many congratulations @amybryce, @Benlunn, @BlasioKavuma, @EPerivolaris @FloriMaunders, @mbetteridge, @PhilipDutton1 and @soosanl .
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The RPS Singer Award goes to Jennifer Johnston, for the 'commitment and emotional force she brings to everything she does, from cherished performances as Artist in Residence with @liverpoolphil to her outstanding charity work supporting fellow musicians.'.@AskonasHolt.#RPSAwards
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…performing and commissioning male and female composers equally, and reconceiving the place of choral singing, deeply connecting with East London communities ahead of their planned move to Stratford.' 2/3.
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A very Happy 75th Birthday to Martha Argerich pictured here receiving RPS Gold Medal from our Chairman John Gilhooly
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Two much-loved icons of classical music – the horn player @sarahwillis and the dedicated supporter and organiser of musical initiatives Ursula Jones – have today been made Honorary Members of the RPS in recognition of their outstanding services to music.
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We are thrilled to announce the seven composers newly joining the 2021-22 #RPSComposers programme!. @LucyArmstrong91, Andrew Chen, @GleaveRylan, @AlexHoComposer, @ZakiyaLeeming, @sarah_lianne_l, @AngelaSmusic . Find out more about each of them here:.
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From tomorrow you can watch the #RPSAwards entirely for free on our website, but here for now is a flavour: stirring words from @annalapwood as she received the RPS Gamechanger Award last week on 1 March. #IWD2023 1/7
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Today we learned a former participant in our annual composers programme has been prosecuted for indecent behaviour towards women. We concur with the prosecutor’s view of his acts. We have removed his profile from our website and are in wholehearted solidarity with his victims.
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We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the RPS Enterprise Fund! These 87 recipients represent the resilient, creative and inspiring ways in which classical musicians have responded to the pandemic nationally.
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RPS Honorary Membership awarded to STEPHEN HOUGH for virtuosic command of his instrument and the intelligence and insight of his beautifully crafted interpretations
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Today we bid a fond farewell to the wonderful Robin Sheffield @RASheffield who has worked at the RPS for seven years. What a brilliant colleague - you couldn't ask for a better person to work with. Thank you dear Robin, and all the best for your next adventures.
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Winners of the RPS Inspiration Award are @HilaryJCampbell and @BristolChoral. 'Led by Hilary's unbound energy, the choir gave stirring online renditions of choral works thoughout the pandemic, as well as launching their debut CD and a carol commissioning competition.' #RPSAwards
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The winner of the RPS Singer Award is @nickythespence. 'His phenomenal vocal talent combined with the immense care he brings to everything sets a benchmark for us all… from performances at @bbcproms and @WelshNatOpera to nurturing young talent.' #RPSAwards
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This week we announce two major RPS honours. His Majesty The King has presented RPS Honorary Membership to composer Judith Weir (pictured) and RPS Chairman John Gilhooly presented the RPS Gold Medal to violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. (pic: PA/Wigmore Hall)
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The RPS Ensemble Award goes to @manc_collective who are riding an extraordinary wave this year. They are 'changing the vocabulary of how classical music is presented. It's joyous to be in the audience and feel part of their collective passion.' #RPSAwards
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The RPS Impact Award goes to @E_N_O Breathe. Helping hundreds of long-COVID sufferers address their breathing and anxiety, #ENOBreathe is 'a brilliant example of how music, and the principles of music-making, can touch lives in ways people may not imagine.' @E_N_O. #RPSAwards
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The 2024 #RPSAwards shortlist is revealed! Congratulations to all this year's nominees who represent so many brilliant musical individuals, groups and initiatives inspiring communities across the UK.
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What a view! @LPOrchestra and Edward Gardner thrilling the @bbcproms audience with R Strauss, Ligeti Requiem and Lux aeterna tonight. Fearless singing from @LPChoir @edvardgriegkor @RNCMChoir @ClarePresland and @Jenni_France bringing out every remarkable colour in the music.
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For his sparkling programming and dynamic leadership in his 10th year as Principal Conductor @LPOrchestra, as well as a hugely successful return to @glyndebourne for Hamlet @brettdeanmusic, Vladimir Jurowski WINS the Conductor award #RPSMusicAwards
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Many congratulations, much deserved, to our friends @wigmore_hall and RPS Chairman John Gilhooly for receiving the South Bank Sky Arts Award for Innovation in the Arts During The Pandemic.
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Let's have a round of applause for mezzo-soprano @Joanna_Harries who's now working at her local @coopuk! She's stacking shelves and scanning items at the till, covering hours that others can no longer make. Here she shares her thoughts on her experiences so far. #IntrepidMusician
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Stephen Hough: we undersell classical music to youth We invite them to climb Primrose Hill when they are ready for Ben Nevis #RPSMusicAwards.
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Delighted to welcome the 2022 RPS Composers to RPS HQ this evening for a networking event! So great to finally meet them in the flesh after working together this past year.
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At No. 1 in the @ClassicFM #HallofFame2021, #TheLarkAscending is beloved by so many. Here it is as you've probably never heard it before: pianist @PosterTom and violinist @ElenaUrioste play RVW's revelatory original version. See our new full trailer here:
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***RPS NEWS*** We're delighted to announce that James Murphy (@jamesmurphynow) has been appointed Chief Executive of RPS. He will join RPS in the summer, taking over from Rosemary Johnson who is stepping down after twenty years.
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Cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason @shekukm has had exceptional year, drawing a fantastic new following to classical music with his impassioned performances and advocacy. @enticottmusic @IMGArtistsUK #RPSAwards
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Compelling and devastating in equal measure - @solomonsknot gave an incredibly moving performance of Bach’s Matthew Passion from memory at @BrittenPears for Easter Sunday. Hear them in Cambridge on Wednesday:
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Congratulations to @vopera20 winning the RPS Opera and Music Theatre Award. 'Their spectacular digital production of Ravel's L’enfant et les sortilèges lifted spirits and wittily spoke to the times. We can’t wait to see what its gifted young creators will do next!'. #RPSAwards
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'Access to the arts and culture is access to our national life and the universal right of every citizen. classical music is no ornament or sideline.'. John Gilhooly OBE, RPS Chair and Director @wigmore_hall #RPSAwards.
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This year's RPS Gamechanger is @Annalapwood. Anna 'communicates music's worth and resonance through all life's stress and noise. She is lighting a way, opening new doors and drawing us all in with her infectious spirit.' .#RPSAwards
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The winner of the RPS Storytelling Award is Quartet by @LeahBroad, which 'weaves the stories of four composers the world should know better. She brings them to life with such sensitivity and nuance, changing our perceptions of their artistry and impact.' #RPSAwards
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Fantastic to see pianist Imogen Cooper CBE awarded The Queen's Medal for Music. An artist yet at the top of her game following her resplendent @wigmore_hall.recitals this year and her latest @ChandosRecords disc, and renowned for her support and kindness to younger musicians.
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A historic day for the RPS: 200 years since the world premiere of our commission, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, RPS Chairman John Gilhooly is pleased to announce that His Majesty The King will take forward Patronage of the RPS, previously fulfilled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
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After the news of Jane Manning and Valerie Solti, we are sorry to hear that composer Simon Bainbridge has died. His powerful Fantasia for Double Orchestra was part of the RPS 'Encore' initiative, giving neglected works new light. Time for us all to listen to more of his music.
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The RPS Conductor Award goes to Ryan Bancroft. New Principal Conductor of @BBCNOW, Ryan's 'electrifying concerts invigorated the orchestra’s repertoire, particularly in Black History Month. Ryan is fast become an asset to music-making nationwide.' #RPSAwards @intermusicaltd
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We welcome internationally renowned mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly @spconnolly to our event, 'The RPS Conversation' on 4 April. Join us and hear her thoughts about making music in modern times. Book your free tickets here: @AskonasHolt
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The RPS Conductor Award goes to Martyn Brabbins. 'A fortifying presence,' from engagements with @ENO and @BBCNOW to an epic performance of Scott of the Antarctic with @BBCSO, 'Martyn's contribution to UK musical life is colossal'. #RPSAwards .@intermusicaltd
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Announcing the seven composers who will be participating in the 2024 RPS Composers programme! We are so excited to be working with them and our valued programme partners over the next year, and we look forward to sharing more of their work with you.🧵.
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Here it is: the 2023 #RPSAwards shortlist, shining a light on brilliant individuals, groups and initiatives inspiring communities across the UK, reflecting the far-reaching and resounding impact that classical music has nationally.
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The RPS Chamber-Scale Composition Award goes to.Wicked Problems by @LJBcomposer!. This 'dazzling gymnastic display for voice and bass flute confronts the future consequences of climate change with virtuosity, fury and darkly-glimmering wit.' #RPSAwards
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Truly majestic, This is Rattle @londonsymphony was a triumphant, Odyssean celebration of Sir Simon Rattle's homecoming. It is the WINNER in Concert Series & Festivals #RPSMusicAwards
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We're delighted to welcome @StephenFry to the RPS this month for a very special conversation – with the author and music critic for @NewYorker @alexrossmusic about his latest book: ‘Wagnerism’. Join us for it live on our website 6.00pm Tuesday 29 Sept:.
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It was destined to be special, but WOW @bbcsingers and @sjeannin's late-night @bbcproms showed us all the splendour, dexterity and magic of the singing voice. What Olympians they are. And in embattled times, what warmth, joy and resilience they gave us. Long may they last.
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We are dearly sorry to hear that the wondrous Jane Manning OBE has died. A fearless vocalist, a blazing force in new music, a pioneer who brought such dexterity, light and joy to everything she did. She set a tempo for so many performers to follow, and will be fondly remembered.
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NEWS: Violinist @NickyBenedetti's powerful speech for the RPS on #musiceducation - and why music is fundamental to our lives - is now available online. You can watch the film on our website if you're an RPS Member, or on @ClassicFM for a limited time.
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The winner of the Instrumentalist Award is Abel Selaocoe @Abel_Cellist. He 'lays bare all the joys and wonders that come from making music. It's mesmerising to behold how he fuses being a cellist, singer, composer and improviser, and combines global traditions.' #RPSAwards
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We warmly welcome @LHaleComposer, #RPSComposer 2020. An alumna of @RNCMvoice, Lucy is passionate about widening access to music making. She is Young Composer-in-Residence @Orchestras4All and was the inaugural Young Composer-in-Association @BSOrchestra Resound in 2018/19.
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All the news from this year's Royal Philharmonic Society Awards #RPSAwards is right here on our website. It's a story worth sharing of classical music-makers nationwide giving their all for the benefit of society.
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A born collaborator whether with new performers or international stars, Joseph Middleton @jpianomiddleton WINS Young Artist #RPSMusicAwards.
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Sad news today of the death of the composer and conductor Peter Eötvös. A hugely important figure in European contemporary music, his music conveys a rich tapestry influences. He received the RPS Large Scale Composition Award for his opera Three Sisters in 2002.
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Much has been rightly said of late about why music education matters. Then along comes the new John Lewis @jlandpartners Christmas ad and puts it beautifully. Give children instruments. Watch what happens.
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Young composer @AlexiaSloane has won the @BBCProms Inspire Competition for her piece 'Elegy for Aylan'! Sign up to see a FREE performance by @auroraorchestra and Christopher Stark. Tomorrow at 5pm, BBC Broadcasting House. #emergingcomposers @ClassicFM
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NEWS: we are pleased to announce two new courses in our acclaimed #WomenConductors programme. One course especially for young women studying music in the North of England (30-31 Mar, 17 Sep) and one in Birmingham aimed at music students (14-15 Apr).
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Last night at the @bbcproms, Vladimir Jurowski was presented with one of the highest international honours in music: the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal. You can listen to the whole concert and presentation in the @BBCRadio3 broadcast.
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Our jury was completely enthralled by the positive, electrifying force of Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla @TheCBSO and has placed her the #RPSMusicAwards shortlist.
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The winner of the RPS Storytelling Award is Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason @thekannehmasons for House of Music, 'a fresh, moving account of raising children and nurturing their creativity. It captures what’s sincerely human in classical music-making.' #RPSAwards
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We are hugely proud to announce eight artists newly joining the Royal Philharmonic Society: the 2019 RPS Composers! @ClaireCvictoria, @HollieAHarding, Jocelyn Campbell @phonewifey, @joeljarve, @lilliepharris, @peter_wilson_1, @Robert_Laidlow, @robinhaigh1.
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While we can't all be together for the #RPSAwards, let us know where in the world you are watching. And if you've specially dressed for the occasion - like the RPS Team - we'll retweet your pic! Cheers🥂
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Unerringly modern and innovative but always playing with absolute clarity and conviction, Igor Levit @igorpianist is the WINNER of the Instrumentalist award #RPSMusicAwards @Wigmore_Hall @IMGArtistsUK
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The winner of the RPS Young Artist Award is @lottebettsdean. 'She's a visionary performer, blazing through so much daring repertoire, and plunging into one bold collaboration after another.' #RPSAwards
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Exceptional pianist Igor Levit @igorpianist has been shortlisted for the #RPSMusicAwards for his landmark Beethoven sonata cycle series @Wigmore_Hall @IMGArtistsUK
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The RPS Chamber-Scale Composition Award goes to.SERENITY 2.0 by @bennobuto. Commissioned by @manc_collective, this 'sonically dazzling tour-de-force tantalises the listener with its bold tapestry of writing for strings, percussion, and electronics.' #RPSAwards
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#ThomasAttwood made mistakes in his music homework and got a slap on the wrist from Herr Mozart. We hope none of your teachers call you by similar names. Found in the RPS Archives @britishlibrary @BL_Music_Colls. Anyone else know a #NaughtyComposer?
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LOVE CLASSICAL MUSIC?. Feed your curiosity and love with all new Membership of the Royal Philharmonic Society. Click below for more details and share if you can! .
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