On Sunday 3rd August, during our Extraordinary Summer Showcase in the Foyer of the Queen Elizabeth Hall at the Southbank, Making Music presented Tomorrow’s Warriors Co-Founders Janine Irons OBE and Dr Gary Crosby OBE with the Sir Charles Groves Award.
The prize was presented by Making Music trustee Will Prideaux, Director of Peterborough Sings!, and is awarded every two years to an individual or organisation who has made an outstanding contribution to the musical life of the UK.
Sir Charles Groves was not only a remarkable conductor, but also a tireless advocate of for music-making at every level, from the concert hall to the community hall, and the prize was first presented in 1990 in honour of Sir Charles’ 75th birthday.
“I am delighted that Making Music is able to shine a light on two people who have truly made a difference to the musical life of the whole of the UK – based in London, but nurturing, supporting and developing whole new generations of young people, providing opportunities and inspiration which have rippled across the UK nations into the professional jazz scene and beyond.” Barbara Eifler, Chief Executive, Making Music
It was incredibly special for the award to be made during our summer celebration of the hard work and dedication shown by our current cohort of young musicians.
“A massive thank you to the Making Music Board for awarding us the 2025 Sir Charles Groves Prize that recognises Gary and me as making a significant contribution to the musical life of the country.
It means so much to receive such high recognition from a wonderful grass roots music organisation dedicated to empowering people, whatever their background or experience, to come together in their community to make or present music. Like us, they too are at the coal face, so they know how tough this work is.” Janine Irons OBE, Chief Executive, Tomorrow’s Warriors
“Sir Charles was noted as a conductor for taking on large scale works, most notably the complete cycle of Mahler’s symphonies. When we set up Tomorrow’s Warriors 34 years ago, we had no idea that it would grow to impact the lives of some 15,000 young musicians – almost Groves-ian in scale!
Receiving this award highlights just how important it is to democratise access to music and music education for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstance. Thank you.” Dr Gary Crosby OBE, Artistic Director, Tomorrow’s Warriors