Today would have been my close friend Sue Knussen’s 70th birthday. I’m delighted that the Sue Knussen Composer’s fund is celebrating by announcing the Sue Knussen Birthday Awards in memory of Olly Knussen:
Joanna Lee – Sue Knussen Composition Bursary in memory of Oliver Knussen. This award is intended to give a composer the time to compose.
Knussen Chamber Orchestra in conjunction with the Royal Academy of Music – Two young composers (as yet unnamed) will be commissioned in the near future by the Sue Knussen Composers Fund as part of the Sue Knussen birthday awards. These commissions will be performed by the newly formed Knussen Chamber Orchestra.
The Purcell School for Young Musicians – An award is being given to contribute to alumni commissions for a special event to take place on March 1, 2020 at the South Bank Centre. This event remembers Oliver Knussen’s connection to the Purcell School whilst showcasing the many talented students who currently study there.