News

The Trinity Laban alum received a ‘Gift of the Academy’ recognising her exceptional body of classical works.

Now in their 18th year, the annual The Ivors Composer Awards 2020 (previously the British Composer Awards) honour the best new works by UK contemporary composers in classical, jazz and sound art. New for 2020, in addition to the eleven category awards, three composers were awarded ‘Gift of the Academy’ awards from The Ivors Academy celebrating their repertoire to date.

Trinity Laban alum and British composer Cecilia McDowall was awarded an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Works Collection, recognising her exceptional body of classical works.

Cecilia is one of the finest composers of her generation, particularly noted for her choral works. Her music has been commissioned and performed by leading choirs and ensembles worldwide. The composer is often inspired by extra-musical influences and her writing combines a rhythmic vitality with expressive lyricism.

Presenting the award, The Academy said –

“Cecilia is a highly skilful and captivating composer who communicates through her music with stunning beauty, sensitivity and impact.”

On receiving the honour, Cecilia commented –

“It is very humbling to have been singled out to follow in the footsteps of previous recipients when there are so many other deserving composers.”

Also nominated at this year’s awards were Trinity Laban bass teacher Calum Gourlay (Jazz Composition for Small Ensemble), Trinity Laban saxophone and improvisation teacher Mark Lockheart (Jazz Composition for Small Ensemble) and Trinity Laban composition alum Amir Konjani (Small Chamber Ensemble).

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