As COVID-19 ramps up and ensuing restrictions shut down concerts, events, the Olympics, and more, award ceremonies too are being forced to change their plans as things continue to change.
This time next month, the Australian music world was set to be gearing up for the 2020 APRA Music Awards. Scheduled to be held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Tuesday, April 28th, safety concerns have seen the initial plans for the event axed, with a new approach being announced today.
With APRA AMCOS remaining as committed as ever to its members and the Australian music community, they believe it is as important as ever to acknowledge our songwriters and their publishers. With this in mind, today sees them announcing that this year’s APRA Music Awards will instead be a virtual event, being live-streamed to ensure recognition is still given to those receiving awards.
“This is an unprecedented time in all our lives, it’s not easy to make any sort of decision right now about the near future,” explains Chair of the APRA Board, Jenny Morris.
“But everyone involved with the APRA Music Awards decided that going ahead with the awards was something we could and should do – albeit in a very different way, but one that brings the awards to music fans far and wide for the first time.
“It’s important to celebrate and acknowledge the success and artistry of our songwriters whose work enrichens our lives. They will be the ones who help us get through this time.”
Now set to be held on Tuesday, May 26th, further details about the live-stream are set to be announced in the coming weeks, though the virtual format will feature presenters, winners and, of course, the always special performances of the Song of the Year finalists.
The nominees for the 2020 APRA Music Awards are set to be announced in a matter of days, with the full list of those in the running being revealed on Tuesday, April 7th.
