The Worshipful Company of Musicians has announced the recipients of the 2016 Iles Medal and Mortimer Medal.

Gray award

Scottish conductor and cornet virtuoso Russell Gray (above) will receive the Iles Medal, first presented in 1947, in recognition of his outstanding services to the banding movement — which has seen him win multiple awards around the banding world both as a performer and conductor.

The Yamaha Artist continues to combine the many varied aspects of his career — from being Adjunct Professor at Queensland University to President of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors, to his busy solo, teaching and freelance conducting commitments with great success.

Harrison recognition

The Mortimer Medal, first presented in 1995, will be presented to Samantha Harrison, in recognition of her outstanding services to the teaching of young people in the brass band movement.

Samantha is not only a highly talented cornet player with Elland Silver Band, but is a truly inspirational conductor and dedicated teacher of players associated with the Elland Silver Youth Band organisation.

Formed in 1995 they have gone on to become one of the finest youth ensembles in Europe — winning multiple awards and contesting honours along the way.

The Mortimer Medal, first presented in 1995, will be presented to Samantha Harrison, in recognition of her outstanding services to the teaching of young people in the brass band movement4BR

Presented

The awards will be presented at the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall on October 8th.