Music in the Round and Ensemble 360 shortlisted for Sky Arts Award 2026

1 Oct 2026

Sheffield-based chamber music organisation Music in the Round and its resident group of musicians Ensemble 360 have been shortlisted in the Classical Music category of the prestigious Sky Arts Awards 2026, for their annual Sheffield Chamber Music Festival.

For more than four decades, Music in the Round has brought audiences closer to music through its distinctive ‘in the round’ performances, combining world-class artistry with an unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

Rooted in Sheffield but reaching audiences across the UK, it has redefined how chamber music is experienced, breaking down barriers between performers and audiences while nurturing the next generation through pioneering education programmes.

The flagship Sheffield Chamber Music Festival, presented with Ensemble 360 and guest musicians in the Crucible Theatre’s Playhouse and other venues around the city, was praised in the nomination for “showing what community feels like when classical music is proudly part of the cultural offer”.

Music in the Round and Ensemble 360 are shortlisted alongside composer Anna Meredith nominated for her groundbreaking body of work, and Chineke! for their remarkable 10-year anniversary concerts.

The Sky Arts Awards celebrate excellence across the entire spectrum of the arts in the UK and Ireland. The Sheffield-based classical music organisation will be featured at a glitzy awards ceremony hosted by Sir Grayson Perry and Rebecca Lucy Taylor (aka Self Esteem) later this month together with some of the UK’s best-known artists including CMAT (nominated in the Popular Music category), Nick Mohammed (Comedy) and Michael Sheen (Theatre).

Jo Towler, Chief Executive of Music in the Round, said: “We are thrilled and honoured to be shortlisted for a Sky Arts Award. This recognition belongs to our musicians, audiences, partners and supporters, who share our belief that chamber music can be vibrant, welcoming and for everyone.”

Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Roundhouse, Camden, on Tuesday 13 October 2026. It will be broadcast at 9pm on Sky Arts, Freeview channel 36 and NOW tv.