Leading the list of honorees is Lily Allen, who will receive the prestigious Icon Award. As an artist whose “influence, authenticity, and cultural impact continues to resonate,” Allen expressed her pride in supporting the charity’s mission: “Music therapy is such an essential resource and I’m proud to support something that has such a profound impact on people’s lives.”
Joining her is Sam Fender, recipient of the Best Live Act Award. Following a massive 2025 that included a sold-out show at the 80,000-capacity London Stadium, Fender described the nod as an “honour,” noting, “I’m so lucky to do this as a job.”
The 2026 lineup highlights the diverse power of sound, from contemporary classical to indie rock:
Ludovico Einaudi (Innovation in Music Award): The celebrated composer, who recently sold out two nights at The O2, remarked: “Music has a rare ability to reach people in ways that words alone cannot.”
Max Richter (Contemporary Music Award): The composer behind the billion-streamed SLEEP praised the charity’s work, stating: “Their work reminds us that music is not just art, but care. It’s therapy, it’s community, it’s hope.”
Since its inception in 1976, the O2 Silver Clef Awards have raised over £17 million, allowing Nordoff and Robbins to grow from a small London operation to a national force. In 2025 alone, the charity delivered 48,000 sessions, supporting 15,500 people through the power of music.
Sandra Schembri, CEO of Nordoff and Robbins, emphasized that in a difficult fundraising landscape, the awards are “more important than ever” to ensure the continued training of therapists.
