The new RSCM Young Church Musician Award seeks to recognise young church musicians who are making a significant contribution to the flourishing of church music in their context.

It is an Award for those establishing their own role and voice within the church music sector and for whom being an advocate for the role of music within worship is a visible and ongoing feature of their life, whether on a paid or voluntary basis.

Unlike the other RSCM Honorary Awards, which often celebrate those at the pinnacle of their career, or a contribution made over a long and sustained period, this Award is intended to celebrate those nearer the beginning of their relationship with church music and we hope to keep in touch with recipients as their careers develop.

We were delighted to receive a varied group of nominations for the inaugural round of awards, with a wide range of roles within church music represented amongst the nominees.

2026 Recipients

Storm Cannon, St Gabriel’s Church, Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne

Nathan D’Almeida, All Saints’ Church, Four Oaks, Birmingham

Dylan McCaig, St Mary’s Church, Banbury, Oxfordshire

Kate Powell, St Mary’s Church, Calne, Wiltshire

Jack Wilson, Belfast Cathedral, Northern Ireland

‘It’s wonderful to be able to recognise the achievements of young, early-career musicians who have gone above and beyond expectations in the service of church music. Developing the music leaders of the future is one of our priorities, and we look forward to them joining us at our annual Celebration Day to receive their awards; and to remaining alongside them as they continue to grow and develop in their work.’ Hugh Morris, RSCM Director

The Young Church Musician Award recipients will join those receiving our other Honorary Awards (for whom you can find details HERE) in Salisbury Cathedral on Saturday 25^th September.

We welcome nominations for the next round of Honorary Awards which are now open and will close on 14^th December. You can read details of all the Awards and how to nominate someone HERE.