London, 12th February 2025 – Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, has revealed the first wave of winners for the prestigious 2025 O2 Silver Clef Awards. Recognised for their outstanding contributions to the music industry, David Gilmour, IDLES, Rick Astley, and Soul II Soul are among this year’s honorees.
David Gilmour, legendary Pink Floyd guitarist and vocalist, will be awarded the highly esteemed O2 Silver Clef Award, joining past recipients such as David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, and Ed Sheeran. Expressing his gratitude, Gilmour stated, “It’s such an honour to receive the O2 Silver Clef Award. Music speaks its own language, and it’s inspiring to see Nordoff and Robbins using it to make a real difference.”
Celebrated for his enduring career and musical reinvention, Rick Astley will receive the Outstanding Achievement in Music Award, sponsored by Tysers Live. Best known for hits like Never Gonna Give You Up, Astley acknowledged the significance of the award, saying, “Music gives us all an opportunity to connect, and I’ve been fortunate to share that connection with so many people over the years.”
Post-punk band IDLES will take home the Best Live Act Award, sponsored by Uber Eats Music Hall, in recognition of their electrifying performances. Lead singer Joe Talbot reflected on the honour, stating, “Performing live is at the core of what we do. To be recognised by Nordoff and Robbins, who use music in such a powerful way, is something we deeply appreciate.”
Trailblazing UK group Soul II Soul will receive the Innovation in Music Award for their pioneering contributions to music. Jazzie B, founding member of the group, expressed gratitude, saying, “Pushing boundaries and creating something that lasts has always been our aim. This award feels very special.”
The winners will be celebrated at a star-studded awards ceremony on Wednesday, 2nd July 2025, at JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London. Hosted by Edith Bowman, the evening will bring together music industry leaders, artists, and supporters to raise vital funds for Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapy services. Returning as headline sponsor for the 24th year, O2 continues its unwavering support of the event.
Nordoff and Robbins CEO, Sandra Schembri, highlighted the importance of the awards in funding the charity’s mission: “We face growing demand, rising costs, and decreasing donations. It costs over £8 million a year to run our charity, and the funds raised from this spectacular event are crucial in providing music therapy to those who need it most.”
Since its inception in 1976, the O2 Silver Clef Awards have raised over £13.5 million, funding thousands of life-changing music therapy sessions. Last year alone, the event raised £760,000, supporting over 9,000 therapy sessions.
To find out more or register interest in the event, visit www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/events/o2-silver-clefs.