Set up in 2024, the Art of Piano Education Awards exists to celebrate excellence and positive innovation in the music industry.
On 12 May 2026, Paul Harris was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his role as one of the UK’s most influential music educationalists. A distinguished educator, composer, and writer, Paul has authored more than 600 publications. His inspirational masterclasses and workshops continue to influence thousands of young musicians and teachers all over the world in both the principles and practice of musical performance and education.
The panel of judges said of the Award:
“Paul Harris is one of the leading music educationalists in the UK, a prolific writer, speaker and composer. Always a popular Music & Drama Education Expo speaker, with a career spanning over five decades, Paul has actively sought to demystify music theory and strives to make a good music education available to all.”
Amy Driscoll, Chairwoman of the Advisory Board of the Art of the Piano Education Awards.
Celebrating with Paul at the Royal Albert Hall last Tuesday, our Publishing Director commented:
“We’re thrilled that Paul Harris has been recognised by the Art of Piano Education Awards with their Lifetime Achievement Award this year. Paul’s work has undoubtedly helped to shape the music education landscape here in the UK and beyond over the decades and carrying on, into the future. Paul’s relationship with Faber Music began 40 years ago, and ever since, we’ve been immensely proud of his achievements, his continued enthusiasm for music education, and his endless energy for finding new ideas.”
Lesley Rutherford, Publishing Director, Faber Music
Paul’s new book, Play with Rhythm, will be coming out in June this year.
On the same night, The Faber Music Women Composers Piano Anthology picked up the President’s Award. This follows its success as Sheet Music Publication of the Year at the Presto Music Awards in 2025.
“The Women Composers Piano Anthology celebrates music by composers from across the centuries, including works that have long deserved a place in the spotlight. We hope this accessible, carefully curated collection will inspire students to expand their repertoire, support their growth as expressive, confident musicians, and be something they cherish for years to come.”
Rachel Topham, Head of Marketing, Faber Music