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Sony Music artists honoured at Nordoff Robbins’ O2 Silver Clef Awards 2022
Nordoff Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, held their annual O2 Silver Clef Awards in London last night, with many Sony Music artists among the winners.
Tom Walker took home Best Male, presented by his grandmother Sadie. “I am totally buzzing to be receiving the AEG Presents Best Male award at this year’s O2 Silver Clef Awards,” he said after receiving the award. “Music brings us together in such a unique way, it is a welcome distraction and a healing tool to so many people. That’s why I believe Nordoff Robbins’ work is so important – helping those who need it most to communicate.”
The award for Best Group went to London Grammar, following the success of their No.1 album Californian Soil last year. “We feel honoured to be accepting the Pizza Express Best Group Award,” said the band. “Each of us have always found music to be the perfect form of self-expression, so we’re delighted to support Nordoff Robbins in their belief that music can be used for therapeutic benefit. Whether it’s to aid mental health or music therapy for autism, Nordoff Robbins continue to encourage the use of music to help people feel more whole.”
Tems won the International Award, presented by Glyn Aikins and Riki Bleau of Since ‘93 Records. Speaking after picking up the award, she said “I am honoured to receive the Raymond Weil International award at this year’s O2 Silver Clefs. Nordoff Robbins understands how to reconnect people through music, whether playing, singing or simply feeling the rhythm. Music is such a massive part of my life and I’m proud to support this charity and its vital work.”
In the Classical category, pianist Alexis Ffrench was named winner. “I’m so thrilled to be collecting the PPL Classical Award and to be supporting Nordoff Robbins to bring music therapy to even more people across the UK,” he said. “Giving vulnerable children and adults the chance to express themselves through music is something close to my heart – music has been part of my world for as long as I can remember.”
Presented by Edith Bowman for the fourth year running, the O2 Silver Clef Awards are held to recognise and celebrate the talent of the winning artists and the powerful impact of music on all members of our society. Since 1976, through the power of music, the awards have raised over £11 million for Nordoff Robbins and honoured some of the greatest names in music.
George Michael’s personal Bechstein Grand piano raised £200k at the event, after guests enjoyed a performance of Cowboys and Angels by pianist Derek Paravicini. The piano was generously donated by George Michael’s Estate to continue the global star’s career-long association with the music therapy charity.
Nordoff Robbins believes that everyone should have access to the value of music. Its music therapists use the power of music to connect with some of the most isolated people in our society – working with children and adults affected by life-limiting illness such as dementia, learning disabilities including autism, physical disability and mental health issues. Nordoff Robbins’ music therapists work with over 270 schools, hospitals, hospices and care homes, as well as providing sessions from its centres across the UK.