Williams-Howard Prize
Support our annual singing competition, which celebrates and promotes the study and performance of art songs by composers of the African diaspora.
Established by RNCM Professor of Singing Michael Harper, whose international career as a countertenor uncovered the distinct and worrying lack of performances of these works, the Williams-Howard Prize aims to ensure this vital repertoire is preserved, celebrated and performed for generations to come.
The first prize of its kind in Europe, it honours both singers and collaborative pianists. Since its launch in 2021, our supporters have played an integral role in its growth by:
- Providing financial support to participants, nurturing the next generation of singers and collaborative pianists.
- Delivering coaching and workshops to the prize winners through sessions led by internationally renowned musicians, bringing this underrepresented repertoire to life.
- Establishing a dedicated repository of music at the RNCM Library, featuring over 130 items, including spirituals, songs by Samual Coleridge-Taylor and Florence Price, and historical works about music during the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement.
- Promoting the study and performance of art songs by composers of African heritage, inspiring musicians to incorporate them into their programmes at the RNCM, Buxton International Festival, and beyond.
Our vision is for this repertoire to become an enduring part of the canon of classical art song, embraced by the next generation of professional singers and pianists. We are beyond proud of the positive steps that have been made so far.
Credit Azzurra Primavera
The Williams-Howard Prize is a vital initiative, shining a light on historic composers who have been unjustly overlooked, while celebrating contemporary artists shaping our musical world today. As a composer and performer, I have seen a real shift as music I’ve championed has taken root in conservatoires and concert halls. Ten years ago, Michael Harper introduced me to the music of Margaret Bonds when few in the UK were singing her works; now her music is heard on major stages. This is the power of dedicated research, advocacy, and performance. The Prize is more than an award—it is a movement that is forging new connections across Britain, the Commonwealth, and Europe. It ensures that the wealth and range of this musical heritage can be fully embraced and that underrepresented voices can take their rightful place on the world’s most prestigious stages.
Errollyn Wallen CBE
Master of the King’s Music
We are pleased to share that, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we have raised over £50,000 – achieving our initial fundraising target for the Williams-Howard Prize.
Reaching this milestone means the prize will now be endowed, with all funds invested to generate annual returns, helping to ensure the prize lasts forever. Whilst we have reached this important goal, further donations are very welcome. Ongoing support will allow us to grow the endowment, increase the value of the prize, and expand associated outreach activities. If you are able to contribute, your donation—no matter the size—will play a vital role in strengthening the Williams-Howard Prize for generations to come.
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Michael Harper, founder of the Williams-Howard Prize, cherished tutor and friend, and passionate advocate and supporter of the RNCM, on 10 March 2025 at the age of 61. Michael’s unwavering dedication to championing art songs by composers of African heritage has left an indelible legacy at the RNCM and beyond. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please do so below. Thank you for helping us continue his vision.
For alternative donation methods or more information about the prize, please get in touch with Alexandra Maliphant at [email protected] | 0161 907 5389.
