Since 2003, we have been recognising exceptional talent in classical, jazz and sonic art composition. For the last 15 years, our awards were known as the British Composer Awards, but from 2019 they are The Ivors Composer Awards.
The Ivors Composer Awards recognise excellence in composition across classical, jazz and sound art. The awards promote the art of composition, recognise the creative talent of composers and sound artists, and bring their music to a wider audience. They are unique in making contemporary classical music, jazz and sound art the focus of their annual celebration.
As an award presented by fellow composers and songwriters to their peers, an Ivor Novello Award is a uniquely authentic and respected recognition of craft. The Ivors Academy holds a public call for entries and all eligible submissions are reviewed by juries specifically appointed by The Ivors Academy.
Works that received a UK première performance, either live or broadcast, between 1 April 2018 and 31 March 2019 are eligible across the following categories:
Solo or Duo
Small Chamber
Chamber Ensemble
Jazz Composition for Small Ensemble
Jazz Composition for Large Ensemble
Choral
Wind Band or Brass Band
Orchestral
Stage Works
Sound Art
Community or Educational Project
Amateur or Young Performers
Entries are made via our Entry Site, where you can also find our full Rules and Guidelines and Eligibility Criteria.
Visit our entry site to enter works. The closing date for entries is Friday 12 July 2019.
Each entry has a £10 administration fee; however, if you are a Standard or Academy member of The Ivors Academy, this fee is waived for your entries. All members wishing to enter should contact Cindy Truong or Tilly Flynn on awards@ivorsacademy.com or call 020 7636 2929 to receive the discount code which will waive their fee on our entry site.
The Ivors Composer Awards are sponsored by PRS for Music. The event is in association with BBC Radio 3 providing exclusive broadcast coverage. The Ivors Composer Awards 2019 will take place on Wednesday 4 December at the British Museum, London.
