Andover’s vibrant music scene is set to take centre stage this autumn with the launch of the very first Andover Music Awards, a brand-new celebration of homegrown talent.
The inaugural event will take place at The Lights Theatre on 13th October, bringing together musicians, performers, and supporters from across the town for an evening dedicated to recognising the creativity and passion within the local music community.
Organised by Andover Radio and Love Andover, the awards aim to celebrate the diversity of musical talent in the area while providing a platform for artists to gain the recognition they deserve. Nominations for the awards will officially open on 27th April.
A Community-Driven Celebration
At the heart of the Andover Music Awards is a team of passionate individuals committed to championing the town’s creative scene.
Among them is Sarah Jane Grace, widely known as SJ, a dedicated community figure and strong advocate for local music. As Club Secretary at the Royal British Legion Club in Andover, she plays a key role in fostering a welcoming environment for residents.
Her involvement in the community stretches back more than 15 years through her work with Andover Carnival, one of the town’s most cherished traditions. Music has also been a lifelong passion for SJ, who began playing a brass instrument at the age of 10 and went on to perform with Test Valley Brass.
Having also managed local pubs including the Railway Tavern and The George alongside her business partner, SJ developed a deep appreciation for the town’s live music scene. She believes the awards are a vital opportunity to showcase local talent and inspire future generations.
SJ said the initiative is about more than entertainment, highlighting the importance of music and the arts in keeping the town “alive and thriving”.
Experience and Expertise
Joining the team is Alun Grace, an accomplished musician, conductor, and educator with more than three decades of experience in brass bands.
Alun’s musical journey began at just nine years old when he started playing the cornet in the Salvation Army. As a teenager, he had already risen to become Principal Tenor Horn for the Southern Divisional Youth Band and Bandmaster of the Andover Salvation Army Band.
Over the years, he has coached musicians of all ages, helping to develop talent across the region. In the past decade, he has worked as a peripatetic brass teacher in schools across Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire.
His musical involvement continues across multiple projects, from performing in theatre productions to playing with bands including The Flotonics and the Little Big Band. He also serves as Musical Director for Andover Musical Theatre Company, with an extensive list of productions to his name.
Alun remains a familiar face at community events such as Andover Carnival and Andover Rocks, further underlining his commitment to local music.
Driving the Vision Forward
Also leading the project is Ben Tuffin, Head of Andover Radio and Love Andover, and a well-known supporter of the town’s creative industries.
While he modestly downplays his own musical abilities, Ben has built a reputation for promoting local talent through his work in media, marketing, and broadcasting. His journey began in 2010 at Andover Sound, where he witnessed the station’s evolution into The Breeze.
Now, he is using that experience to help bring the Andover Music Awards to life.
Ben said: “I’m so excited to be bringing these awards to truly recognise the amazing talent we have here.”
Looking Ahead
With a thriving local scene and a dedicated team behind it, the Andover Music Awards promise to become a standout date in the town’s cultural calendar.
As anticipation builds ahead of nominations opening later this month, organisers are encouraging the community to get involved and help celebrate the musicians who make Andover’s music scene so special.
Andover already has a strong tradition of celebrating community achievements — and this October, music will take its rightful place in the spotlight.