Young keyboard players invited to apply for Musica Britannica Trust competition

Applications are now open for the 2026 Lewis Memorial Prize

a hardback volume of keyboard music with a red colour and gold writing
By Continuo Connect | Published 30 October 2025

Young keyboard players are invited to apply for the latest edition of the Lewis Memorial Prize Competition, with three prizes of up to £2000 on offer.

Founded in 1986 in memory of General Editor and Chair Sir Anthony Lewis, the prize is an annual award from Musica Britannica held alternately for keyboard players, singers, and consorts. Musica Britannica has for more than 70 years been the authoritative national music collection, celebrating lesser-known and little-published composers from the UK, flying the flag for British music in a wider European cultural context.

The prize continues today thanks to a bequest from the wife of Sir Anthony, Lesley, Lady Lewis. Applicants must currently study at or have recently graduated from a UK university or conservatoire and should submit an initial recording of no more than ten minutes, along with a suitable letter of recommendation.

The final of the Lewis Memorial Prize in 2026 will be held at the Royal Academy of Music, London, on 9 April, judged by celebrated harpsichordist and musicologist Davitt Moroney alongside members of the Editorial Committee of Musica Britannica. The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Friday 5 December.

For full application information and how to enter, visit the Musica Britannica website.

(Photo c/o Musica Britannica)

Don't miss a beat – subscribe today!

Subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter to get the latest concert recommendations, festival updates, artist profiles, and curated playlists delivered straight to your inbox.

Read our latest newsletter.

Help early music flourish!

Donate now to support Continuo Connect. Every contribution helps cover the costs of running this non-profit website, ensuring free access for musicians, festivals and the public.