Early Music proves a winner at 2025 International Opera Awards

Early Music enjoyed a welcome share of the spotlight at last night’s International Opera Awards in Athens, with several Baroque-focused projects and artists recognised across key categories.

The Recording (Complete Opera) award was presented to Atys, Lully’s much-loved tragédie lyrique, in the recent release from Château de Versailles Spectacles recorded by Les Talens Lyriques and Christophe Rousset (read our recent interview with Christophe). Elegant, polished and attentive to style, the recording impressed the jury with its clarity of musicianship and strong sense of theatrical purpose—an affirmation of this opera’s continuing appeal.

The Recording (Solo Recital) category saw a win for Ann Hallenberg (her third in the same category after 2014 ad 2016) and The Mozartists with their programme of Gluck Arias. Exploring Gluck’s expressive, transitional sound world, the album was praised for its thoughtful approach, stylistic assurance and Hallenberg’s characterful, finely shaped singing.

Baroque sensibilities also prevailed in the Rediscovered Work award, which went to Galuppi’s L’uomo femina in the lively production from Opéra de Dijon. The project brought renewed attention to Galuppi’s deft writing and comic flair, offering a persuasive case for his music’s place in the modern repertoire.

Among the individual honours, countertenor Hugh Cutting received the Rising Star award. Widely admired for his clean, expressive sound and intelligent artistry, Cutting has quickly established himself as a leading interpreter of Baroque vocal music, and the recognition in Athens reflects that growing reputation.

In response to the awards, Tina Vadaneaux, founder and CEO of Continuo, said, 'These wins underscore the strength and variety of Baroque performance today – proof that the repertoire continues to inspire compelling work on the opera stage and in the recording studio.'