Welcome to the 2026 BBC Music Magazine Awards.
The nominated recordings for the 2026 Choral Award are listed below.
The nominees for the 2026 Choral Award
Bach
B minor Mass
Julie Roset (soprano), Beth Taylor (mezzo-soprano), Lucile Richardot (alto) et al; Pygmalion/Raphaël Pichon
Harmonia Mundi HMM902754.55 (2CD)
This tremendous take on Bach’s Mass in B Minor brings something blazingly fresh to the list of recordings of this work. Triumphant, spirited and finely detailed performances from Raphaël Pichon’s period-instrument ensemble and choir Pygmalion offer a ‘dynamic, imaginative new reading’ which every choral music enthusiast should add to their collection.
Handel
Chandos Anthems
Arcangelo/Jonathan Cohen
Alpha Classics ALPHA1153
‘Packed with intricate polyphonic detail and infused with burning passion’ is how we described Handel’s historically fascinating work, our ‘Recording of the Month’ in September. Performed by Baroque specialists Arcangelo under the direction of Jonathan Cohen, this recording is bursting with expression and delivered with expert precision.
A Prayer for Deliverance
Works by RR Bennett, Holst, Tavener, Cecilia McDowall, Francis Pott, Caroline Shaw et al
Tenebrae/Nigel Short
Signum Classics SIGCD880
This is a very special record from Nigel Short’s Tenebrae. Built around a compelling contemporary setting of Psalm 13, the programme explores the ‘thresholds of light and darkness… and a longing for rest’, with performances from the ensemble that ‘unleash full-blooded passion without a trace of vulgarity.’
Vote for the winner of this year's Choral Award
Voting runs from Thursday 29 January to Wednesday 3 March. You can vote for your favourite from our three Choral nominees below.
The purpose of this vote is to allow users to share their opinions on the shortlisted recordings for the BBC Music Magazine Awards. While the results will be of interest to other users and the BBC Music Magazine editorial team, it is not a representative sample and only reflects the views of those who choose to participate. Full terms and conditions can be found on our Terms and Conditions page.
