Geddes Peterson Foundation
The Geddes Peterson Foundation carries forward the legacy of the late John Maxwell Geddes, one of Scotland’s leading classical composers. When John sadly died in 2017, his lifelong colleague and friend California-based Hal Peterson contacted SMC to offer a financial donation in John’s name resulting in Hal, SMC and the Geddes family forming the Geddes Peterson Foundation, with the objective of establishing an award in support of emerging composers in Scotland.
Future developments will be posted on this page.
WINNER 2019
Ben Lunn
The winner of the Geddes Peterson Foundation Award 2019 is Ben Lunn, a 28 year old composer from Sunderland. He studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre. He now resides in Glasgow working across conducting, musicology, teaching and composing. His work has been featured at international festivals, he’s worked with renowned ensembles, and had the privilege of lecturing at some of the world’s finest academic institutions.
Ben commented, “It is a joy to receive this award, especially when it is for a piece that one has a certain closeness with. I have not won many things in my life, it is an honour. The legacy of John Maxwell Geddes is a vital one to maintain and it is overwhelming to be associated with him.“
Executive Director of the Scottish Music Centre, Gill Maxwell, said, “We had a good range of entries for this year’s award, demonstrating the breadth of talent and quality of Scotland’s emerging contemporary classical composers. Well done Ben, Scottish Music Centre look forward to supporting you in any way we can”
WINNER 2018
Aileen Sweeney
Aileen Sweeney, who won the first ever Geddes Peterson Foundation award, encouraged her contemporaries to submit a piece for a chance to collect the prize.
She said: “Winning the Geddes Peterson Foundation award last year was a great honour. It gave a huge confidence boost in my work. It opened doors for me that wouldn’t have otherwise been available and I’d urge other up and coming classical composers based in Scotland to put forward a new piece of their work.”
Entry criteria
Composers should be based or regularly working in Scotland
2-4 minute piece of classical music for solo, chamber or orchestra
Must be a new (previously unperformed) piece
This year the winner will receive a cash award (£400) and free publicity by the Scottish Music Centre.
If you wish to make a donation please contact the SMC directly on info@scottishmusiccentre.com
