The Telegraph: Andre Rieu wins album of the year at Classic Brits

[blockquote]Source: The Telegraph
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Violinist Andre Rieu – who has transformed once unfashionable waltz music into a stadium draw – was awarded the prized album of the year title at the Classic Brits.

The Dutch musician, rewarded for his Moonlight Serenade, was one of three violinists to land top awards at the annual event.

British artist Tasmin Little was honoured with the Critics’ Award at last night’s ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall for her album of Elgar’s Violin Concerto.

Another Brit to be recognised was trumpet virtuoso Alison Balsom who was named Female Artist Of The Year. It follows her win five years ago at the Classical Brits when she was named best young British classical performer.

She was given the award on the strength of her Italian Concertos release, and presented with her prize by Lawrence Llewelyn Bowen.

British conductor Antonio Pappano, the music director of the Royal Opera House, took the prize for Male Artist Of The Year. He was awarded the title for the two acclaimed albums he released within the space of six months – Verismo Arias and Stabat Mater.

Last year he won the Critics’ Award, and just two days ago won a top award from the Royal Philharmonic Society for his BBC4 series Opera Italia.

The other violinist to win a prize at the ceremony – hosted by Myleene Klass – was Norwegian Vilde Frang. She was given the Newcomer Award. Frang’s mentor, Anne-Sophie Mutter, was among the performers at the show along with Alfie Boe and Katherine Jenkins, while onlookers included the Duchess Of Cornwall.

Rieu, who is also a conductor, has become one of the biggest selling classical acts in the world, having sold more than 30 million albums. Along with his Johan Strauss Orchestra he has helped to create an international revival in waltzes.

Source: The Telegraph