With Croydon now confirmed as the ‘London Borough of Culture 2023’, PRS for Music are proud to honour The BRIT School with a Heritage Award on 22 July; an acknowledgement of the school’s exceptional and ongoing contributions to music and the arts for the last 30 years.
The PRS for Music Heritage Award recognises institutions which have played a crucial role in the UK music landscape. Previous recipients have included The Dublin Castle (Madness’ first performance), The Blitz Club (Spandau Ballet’s first performance), The Electric, Brixton (Soul II Soul’s first performance) and The Duke of York Pub, Belfast (Snow Patrol’s first performance) to name a few.
BRIT School Principal Stuart Worden will receive the award alongside recent BRIT School graduate Sapphire Walters who performs as Young Athena as part of the culmination of the BRIT School’s 30th anniversary celebrations. The Heritage Award plaque will be permanently installed at the school’s Obie Theatre, named after legendary music executive Maurice Oberstein.
The BRIT School is renowned for nurturing illustrious musical careers for, Adele FKA Twigs, Black Midi, Leona Lewis, King Krule, Kae Tempest, among many others.
PRS for Music CEO, Andrea Czapary Martin says, “The opportunity to support a school that has a strong vision to nurture and develop young people for the music industry, is an honour for us at PRS for Music. I am encouraged by the knowledge exchange that the BRIT School have with PRS for Music and hope to continue to support in all the ways that we can”.
PRS Members’ Council Chair, Nigel Elderton says, “There are a multitude of barriers faced by young people who want to pursue music and the creative arts. I believe the work that the BRIT School do in ensuring that these barriers are broken, is a testament to their unique educational approach, that focusses on the individual”.
The BRIT School Principal, Stuart Worden says “This is a great moment in our 30th Anniversary year. PRS for Music have always believed in this school, and we have benefited from their advice and help. It has been a real joy to see the school grows and grows and make such an impact on the world of music, and all creative industries. Here’s to 30 more.”
