Three outstanding young classical musicians have each been awarded $10,000 as recipients of the 2025 Dame Malvina Major Foundation Arts Excellence Awards. 

Congratulations to this year’s recipients:
Henry Meng – Piano
Natania Ngawhau -Trombone
Ben van Leuven – Clarinet

The awards aim to support exceptional young artists on their journey toward a professional career in classical music with the three artists selected each demonstrating not only musical excellence but clear artistic vision and a commitment to their craft. In its first year as a national programme, the Arts Excellence Awards run alongside a range of regional awards delivered in partnership with local committees and sponsors.