Boy Edgar Prize
The Boy Edgar Prize is the most important award in Dutch jazz and improvised music. The award is presented annually to a performing musician who contributes to the genre in a special way. Part of the award is the bronze interchangeable sculpture ‘John Coltrane’ by Jan Wolkers and a cash prize of €25,000.
The winner will be announced at inJazz. Performing Arts Fund NL has been organizing this award since 2022. They are supported by Buma Cultuur, Sena Performers and North Sea Jazz.
Most recent winners:
2024 – Tony Roe
2023 – Monica Akihary
2022 – Ronald Snijders
2021 – not awarded
2020 – Ack van Rooyen
2019 – Jasper Blom
2018 – Jasper van ‘t Hof
2017 – Martin Fondse
2016 – Wilbert de Joode
2015 – Tineke Postma
2014 – Jeroen van Vliet
View all winners in this pdf.
Boy Edgar Prize 2024: Tony Roe
“Pianist, composer, and bandleader Tony Roe is a versatile musician. His mastery of instruments is unmistakable, but it is his free vision of the piano that makes his work distinctive. Roe brings a unique mix of jazz and technology, works across genres and gives the audience experience a new dimension. He is intelligent, committed and an innovator in jazz and improvised music.”
Boy Edgar Prize 2023: Monica Akihary
“Monica Akihary is a musician who has been steadily building an exciting oeuvre for years and works with many musical partners. She actively seeks adventure in these – often daring – collaborations and does not stop there where it chafes. (…) During live performances she makes a deep impression as an improviser and storyteller.”
Boy Edgar Prize 2022: Ronald Snijders
“From a strong love for his roots, starting with his father’s musical legacy, Snijders has a great curiosity for new developments. The connection with the younger musicians is essential for him. (…) He is a generous musician who ensures that other musicians can also shine.”
Photos by Floris Kok, Eric van Nieuwland and Karen van Gilst.