Melbourne’s vibrant music community celebrated its top talents today with the announcement of the winners of the Melbourne Prize for Music 2025. This prestigious award, recognized as one of Australia’s most significant music accolades, awarded Shane Howard AM, a renowned singer-songwriter, the $60,000 Melbourne Prize for Music 2025. This honor acknowledges his exceptional body of work and substantial contributions to Australian music and cultural life.
The awards ceremony, supported by major patrons such as the Vera Moore Foundation and The Tallis Foundation, also recognized several runner-up finalists. They include Deborah Conway AM, a celebrated singer and songwriter, Nicollette Fraillon AM, a distinguished conductor, and Emma Donovan, a talented singer and songwriter. Each finalist will receive $1,000, funded by Fed Square, in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
In addition to the main prize, Vanessa Perica was honored with the $20,000 Beleura John Tallis Award for Emerging Composers 2025, aimed at supporting her career development as a promising Victorian composer. This award is made possible through the support of The Tallis Foundation, commemorating the legacy of John Tallis (1911-1996).
Another notable recognition, the $10,000 Professional Development Award 2025, went to Charlotte Miles, a cellist, to assist with her projects and career growth. Additionally, Deborah Conway AM secured the $2,000 Civic Choice Award 2025, which is awarded to the finalist receiving the highest number of public votes.
Judging Panel and Insights
The judging panel for this year included prominent figures from the Australian music scene: singer-songwriter and former Melbourne Prize recipient Missy Higgins, conductor Benjamin Northey, and musician and arts advocate Genevieve Lacey. The judges expressed their admiration for the diverse talent showcased in the submissions.
In their statement, they noted, “The applications for the Melbourne Prize for Music 2025 form a collection of profound commitment, expression, and contribution to music in Australia. From those who have given a lifetime to their art form, through to those just beginning their journey in music, it is clear that Victoria is enriched by an incredible community of musicians and creative artists.”
The panel emphasized the challenge of selecting recipients, given the high caliber of submissions, and encouraged all applicants to continue pursuing their musical passions.
Community and Cultural Impact
The Melbourne Prize Trust has seen a record number of entrants this year, a testament to the city’s thriving music culture. Simon Warrender, Founder and Executive Director of the Melbourne Prize Trust, expressed gratitude to all entrants and finalists for their contributions. He highlighted the importance of support from partners and patrons in making this event possible.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks remarked, “Melbourne is the cultural capital of the nation, and we are proud to support the Melbourne Prize for Music & Awards, honoring Victorian musicians who have made extraordinary contributions to our music culture.”
The Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Nicholas Reece, also congratulated the finalists and winners, celebrating the music community’s vital role in the city’s cultural landscape. He acknowledged the judges for their challenging task in selecting the recipients from such a talented pool.
A Finalist Exhibit for the 2025 prize has been on display at Fed Square since October 30, providing the public with an opportunity to engage with the remarkable talent recognized by the awards.
The Melbourne Prize for Music not only celebrates individual achievements but also reflects the ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant music ecosystem in Victoria. The awards encourage all musicians to continue their creative journeys and contribute to the rich cultural fabric of Melbourne.
