APRA AMCOS and the Australian Music Centre are thrilled to announce that the Art Music Awards of 2023 will take place on Tuesday, August 15th, at Carriageworks in Sydney, on Gadigal land. This grand event aims to celebrate the remarkable achievements of exceptional talent in the composition, performance, education, and presentation of Australian music.
The Art Music Awards pay tribute to the finest creators and performers in contemporary classical music, jazz and improvised music, experimental music, and sound art.
Catherine Haridy, CEO of the AMC, expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “This year has witnessed an inspiring surge of new music from creators all over the country. It will be an honor to come together as a community and celebrate Australian art music, along with the creative voices and narratives that deeply resonate with us.”
The finalists for the 2023 Art Music Awards will be unveiled on Thursday, July 13th. The awards will encompass 13 national categories, recognizing excellence in music compositions, performances, music education, experimental practices, and contributions to regional areas. Moreover, Luminary Awards will be presented for each state or territory, acknowledging the enduring musical contributions of individuals and organizations to their local communities.
During the ceremony, the APRA Board of Directors will present the Richard Gill Award for Distinguished Services to Australian Music. This prestigious accolade honors an individual or group that has made exceptional contributions to the art music sector over an extended period. Past recipients of this award include Nigel Butterley AM, Penny Loax and Maureen Cooney, The Necks, Peter Sculthorpe, and the late Richard Gill himself.
The 2023 Art Music Awards will be skillfully hosted by Monica Trapaga, a jazz singer and entertainer, and a beloved figure from Play School known for her warmth and charismatic wit on both screen and stage. Joining her as guest presenters will be Nardi Simpson, a Yuwaalaraay storyteller, writer, composer, and performer, and Sonya Holowell, a Dharawal/Inuit vocalist, composer, and writer who explores new and experimental genres.
Adding to the splendor of the occasion, live music performances will be curated by Melbourne-based pianist and composer, Barney McAll. With a Grammy nomination, an ARIA Award, multiple Jazz Bell Awards, and numerous other accolades and collaborations to his credit, McAll proudly embarks on his fifth year of curating the musical program for this event.