The Necks To Make History At 2019 Art Music Awards With Prestigious Honour

Aussie jazz legends The Necks will make history at this year's Art Music Awards when they become the first band ever to receive the prestigious Richard Gill Award for Distinguished Services to Australian Music.

The newly-named award, which honours beloved conductor Richard Gill who passed away last year, recognises outstanding contributions across contemporary classical music, contemporary jazz, improvised music and experimental music. 

The Sydney-formed trio will receive the award at the ceremony taking place on Monday 19 August at the Great Hall of the University of Sydney.

Performers on the night include composer Alice Chance, pianist Sonya Lufschitz, improvisational saxophonist Scott McConnachie and Amy Johnansen. 

Since forming in 1987, The Necks have released 20 albums together, including 2018's Body.