Classical BRIT Awards 2010

ITV 1 · Music · 21 Apr 2010 · by: ITV 1

The UK’s recorded music association, The BPI, announced the nominations for the eleventh annual Classical BRIT Awards with NS&I. The May Fair Hotel played host to the nominations launch and celebrated what has already become a commercially successful year for classical music. The gathering of nominees and a specially invited audience were given just a taste of what is to come with magnificent performances from the Coldstream Guards, British violinist Jack Liebeck, French quartet Quatuor Ebène and the evening’s host and queen of the night, Danielle De Niese took to the stage with a unique performance of the aria ‘Da Tempeste’ from the Italian opera Giulio Cesare. 

The Classical BRIT Awards 2010 with NS&I takes place at the Royal Albert Hall where the winners of the seven award categories will be announced and one of the most loved sopranos of the past century, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa will close the show as she is honoured with the Lifetime Achievement in Music award. 

In true Classical BRITs style, the 2010 nominations reflect not only the talent and precision of core classical artists, but also recognise the impact and popularity of contemporary composers and crossover performers. Leading the nominations with two apiece are Britain’s Got Talent star and holder of the fastest-selling solo classical album in British chart history, Faryl Smith, conductor Antonio Pappano and composer Howard Goodall.

The Classical BRIT Awards were established in 2000 to recognise the outstanding achievements of classical musicians and the growth of classical music sales in the UK.  The awards have proved their vital importance to the UK music industry with the huge impact the event has on record sales of those artists performing, winning and nominated.