Alumni shortlisted for 2021 RPS Awards

Congratulations to the RNCM alumni shortlisted for a 2021 Royal Philharmonic Society Award.

Published yesterday (28 September), this year’s list includes composers Laura Bowler and Mark Simpson, soprano Elizabeth Llewellyn, and cellist Abel Selaocoe.

Elizabeth Llewellyn

Laura, a Tutor in Composition, appears in the Chamber-Scale Composition category with Wicked Problems, while Mark, a Visiting Tutor in Composition, is aiming for success in the Large-Scale Composition category with his Violin Concerto. Elizabeth, who was awarded an RNCM Fellowship in 2019, is shortlisted for this year’s Singer award and Abel, an RNCM Honorary Associate Artist, is in the running for best Instrumentalist.

Congratulations also go to vocal alumna Janet Fischer, Chief Executive of Live Music Now. The organisation, which has supported RNCM students and alumni over the years, appears in the Impact category for its Including Me initiative.

Results will be announced at a ceremony at Wigmore Hall on Monday 1 November with a special Radio 3 broadcast scheduled for 7.30pm on Monday 8 November.

RPS Chief Executive, James Murphy, said: ‘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.

Abel Selaocoe

‘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.’

29 September 2021