Mezzo Emma Wins Harwood Award

Postgraduate mezzo-soprano Emma Stannard has won the 2014 Elizabeth Harwood Memorial Award for Singers.

Emma, who is studying for an MMus in Solo Performance with Peter Wilson, performed pieces by Handel, Mozart, Dvořák, Donizetti and Elgar to secure the Award, accompanied by Robin Humphreys.

On winning, she said: ‘It was an honour to perform in the final alongside so many talented students. To finish my degree having received this Award is a dream come true, providing a wonderful platform for me to step from the RNCM into the profession.’

Talking of the competition, which also awarded a second prize to soprano Meinir Wyn Roberts, Lynne Dawson, Head of the School of Vocal Studies and one of the evening’s adjudicators alongside Susan Bullock and Isobel Flinn, added: ‘This year’s Harwood Award included some beautiful expressive singing and playing from all involved. It was clear that a high level of preparation had gone into all performances, and I offer congratulations to both Emma and Meinir on their success.

‘College competitions are very important for young singers and musicians, and the RNCM is extremely grateful to the Elizabeth Harwood Memorial Trust for its generosity and continued support.’

The Award is administered by the Elizabeth Harwood Memorial Trust in accordance with the will of the late Elizabeth Harwood and enables students to continue their studies after leaving the College.

13 March 2014