The Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) has honoured violinist Nicola Benedetti with its ‘Distinguished Musician Award’ (DMA).
Each year the ISM, which was set up in 1882 to support musicians and promote music, awards one DMA. The Award was established by the ISM in 1976 to recognise the outstanding contribution that an individual has made to musical life in the UK. It is one of the highest honours within the music industry. The award is made by the ISM Council, the governing body of the ISM, which is entirely made up of ISM members from across the UK.
Described as “an extraordinary and inspirational musician”, Benedetti joins such esteemed recipients as Sir Charles Mackerras, Sir Michael Tippett, Jacqueline du Pré OBE and Sir Charles Groves.
On receiving the award, Benedetti said, “It is such an honour to join such esteemed company in the list of previous recipients. I’d like to thank ISM for all the work it does on behalf of the classical music sector. It goes without saying that it has been a very challenging few years and they have fought tirelessly, particularly for freelancers who have had such a difficult time, and continue to fight for our sector to be heard and to help it to thrive. Thank you for everything you do and for giving me with this award.”
ISM President Vick Bain added: “Nicola is an extraordinary and inspirational musician who has helped attract a new audience to classical music and is a role model to so many aspiring musicians, particularly young women and girls. We all remember Nicola winning the BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2004 and she has continued to perform at the very highest level and break new barriers ever since. She has worked with some of the most accomplished orchestras, championed new music and helped to bring classical music to life for millions. We are grateful too for her leadership in and advocacy for music education.”
