As the representative body for the UK’s orchestras and the wider music ecology around them, each year the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) celebrates the dedication, inspiration and achievements of the people who work in our sector through the ABO Impact Awards.
We want to celebrate the people who make the UK classical music sector brilliant – whatever their role, or team. This is your moment!
We want to celebrate the people who make the UK classical music sector brilliant – whatever their role, or team. This is your moment!
The ABO Impact Awards (formerly the ABO Annual Awards) seek to celebrate individuals or groups of individuals from within the ABO membership whose work, particular project or initiative demonstrates the values of inspiration, innovation or collaboration.
There are five awards, one for each of the ABO’s priority areas, demonstrating the values above. The categories are as follows:
There are five awards, one for each of the ABO’s priority areas, demonstrating the values above. The categories are as follows:
- Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
- Learning and Development
- Health and Wellbeing
- Environmental Sustainability
- Innovation
Examples of each category, along with previous winners, can be found on our website for use as a guide only. The awards will be presented at the ABO Annual Conference, in February 2026 in London. For more information and how to nominate, please visit the ABO website here.
As previously, they will not reward on-stage performance.
Nominations are now open until 5pm on Friday 28 November 2025.
Note, the ABO Impact Awards are being presented in addition to the ABO Award. Click here for more details on the ABO Award.