Radio 3 announces the 2014-16 New Generation Artists

BBC Radio 3 has announced the six artists that will be joining its New Generation Artists scheme for 2014-16.

Pianist Pavel Kolesnikov, cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan, violinist Esther Yoo (pictured above) and French horn player Alec Frank-Gemmill (above) will join the scheme along with baritone Benjamin Appl and The Armida Quartet, founded in 2006. You can watch performances from each of them below.

The New Generation Artists scheme was founded in 1999 by Radio 3 to promote talented performers early in their careers through broadcasts, recording opportunities, performances with the BBC Orchestras and chamber collaborations with fellow New Generation Artists.

Edward Blakeman (editor) and Emma Bloxham (lead producer) of Radio 3 say: ‘BBC Radio 3’s New Generation Artists scheme offers an unrivalled platform to talented young musicians across the globe. With such a vast and diverse range of performers having already passed across our roster, we are delighted to welcome the 2014-2016 NGAs and look forward to working with them to develop their skills and broaden their experience.’

Young performers are invited to audition for the scheme annually, with this year’s pool of players joining some from the 2013-15 scheme, including mezzo-soprano Kitty Whately, violinist Lise Berthaud and pianist Louis Schwizgebel.

In a recent blog for us, presenter of BBC New Generation Artists Clemency Burton-Hill wrote: 'I feel incredibly honoured to have presented BBC New Generation Artists on BBC Radio 3 for the past four seasons. It’s inspirational to get to know so many exceptionally talented young instrumentalists, singers and chamber ensembles so early in their careers, and gratifying to be able to watch closely as they grow and develop during the two years they spend on the scheme.'

The Armida Quartet