It's been a very long wait to find out who will win the Gold Medal and £15,000 first prize at the 2020 Annual Music Competition, but the wait is nearly over!
Next month, the AMC will resume with the Mixed Ensembles Section, Overseas Prize and Gold Medal Final still to be decided.
First up, on 6th October the Mixed Ensembles Final will see chamber ensembles put to the test in the Princess Alexandra Hall. The Mixed Ensemble category is usually one of the most diverse, with a huge range of instruments and repertoire that could possibly feature in this final. Repertoire choice is completely up to the competitors and they are encouraged to choose works that best represent them as artists. With so much to choose from, expect a fantastic night of performances from these young musicians.
Book here. Due to social distancing measures, spaces are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment.
The Overseas Prize follows a week later on 13th October, which picks the best performers from the four solo categories who are from outside the UK, to compete for a £3,000 prize and a one-of-a-kind artwork trophy. Purchased from the graduating exhibtion of the department of Ceramics & Glass at the Royal College of Art, these trophies have taken used all kinds of media and forms over the years. Take a look at the previous trophies here.
Finally, on 17th November the four solo category winners reunite at Over-Seas House to compete for the Gold Medal and £15,000 first prize, having already secured £5,000 each for winning their category.
This year, Sirius Chau flute, Siân Dicker soprano, Eleanor Corr violin and Dominic Doutney piano will be the ones competing. Former renowned winners include Jacqueline du Pre cello, Melvyn Tan harpsichord, Piers Lane piano, Juliette Bausor flute and Jonathan Lemalu bass.
The entrants have had plenty of time to practice during lockdown, with live performances cancelled throughout the UK and much of the world. Many had to rely on live streaming to stay connected with audiences, taking the few paid opportunities that arose, such as those provided by ROSL as part of the ROSL at Home series. Take a look at some of the videos here, including those from three of this year's Gold Medal finalists.
