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Applications are open for Ed Renshaw Music Award 2018!

Ed Renshaw playing the guitar

Peter Conway Management and the Albany, in association with Youth Music, have launched the 2018 Ed Renshaw Music Award, the third bi-annual award in memory of the acclaimed guitarist Ed Renshaw who died tragically young.

Set up in memory of Renshaw by his family and friends in 2012, the award is intended to help young musicians in South East London to achieve their potential.

Ed Renshaw was a gifted musician. He was born in Greenwich in 1981 and went to Thomas Tallis School. At the age of 10 he discovered the guitar, decided that music was to be his life, and worked at it with total commitment. He had a rare talent for the instrument, equally fluent in classical, jazz and other styles. But he also struggled bravely against bouts of depression until tragically one ended his life in 2011.

Matt Griffiths, CEO of Youth Music said:

‘We’re very pleased to support this award, which will provide vital career progression opportunities and support for young musicians who might otherwise miss out. Best of luck to all the entrants.’

Peter Conway of Peter Conway Management said:

‘We are delighted to be working again in partnership with the Albany who have supported the Awards from the outset. Their support has been critical to the success of the awards over the last few years. We also welcome our new partner Youth Music who will add a new broader dimension to the awards. Together we aim to create increased benefits for musicians in South East London.’

Rachel Nelken, Head of Creative Programmes at the Albany said:

‘As we relaunch the Albany’s music programme in 2018, and at a time when the South East London music scene is thriving, we’re delighted to be working again on the Ed Renshaw Award to support and develop emerging and talented young musicians onto the next stage in their careers.’

Receiving the Ed Renshaw Music Award not only helps young musicians fund their career plans with cash prizes for between £1,000 and £3,000 for the award winners, but also provides mentoring and industry support from Peter Conway Management, and space to practice and perform at the Albany, as well as artist development support. Winners will also be a part of four ‘Evenings for Ed’: charity gig events at the Albany, taking place from Wednesday 31 October to Saturday 3 November with headline acts to be announced later this year.

The award is for young musicians, whether they be solo artists or in a group, between the ages of 16 and 25 who live in South East London. The judging panel is made up of representatives from the Albany, Peter Conway Management and Ed’s family and friends. They are looking for artists who not only display musical talent and performance skills, but also original music, savvy business plans and a passion to forge a successful musical career.

Application forms can be found on the Albany website at thealbany.org.uk. Applications close on Thursday 28 June. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by the awards panel on Saturday 14 July.