Sextet wins Leamington Music Prize

The group received a prize of £1,000 and an invitation to perform during Leamington Music’s 2015/16 winter concert series.

Formed two years ago, Amici Cantantes is made up of Elizabeth Adams and Naomi Berry (sopranos), Chloë Pardoe (mezzo soprano), David Emerson (tenor), Andrew Randall (baritone), and Timothy Emberson (bass). They all met at the Birmingham Conservatoire.

The prize was awarded by Richard Phillips, Leamington Music’s festival director, after the six singers had sung works by Weelkes, Monteverdi, Schutz, Parry and East.

Speaking for the group, Elizabeth Adams said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be selected as the winner, especially considering the high standard of the competition.

“We didn’t expect this result at all and we’re excited to get involved with Leamington Music.”

The Leamington Music Prize is funded by donations from individuals and the Friends of Leamington Music. The concert in the winter season is sponsored by Wright Hassall Solicitors.

Leamington Music, which was launched in 2006. Besides its annual winter concert series, which includes a Music in the Round season, it puts on the Leamington Music Festival Weekend. Artists who will be appearing at this year’s event, from May 1 to 5, have still to be confirmed.

For more information, visit www.leamingtonmusic.org