Classical:NEXT is an international gathering of the art music industry and its innovation award raises awareness of forward-thinking projects taking place around the world.

For the sixth such award in 2020, 26 music journalists and experts from 25 countries and every continent make up the nominating committee.

Their role is to inform classical music professionals about potential recipients outside of their own national or professional periphery and their work focuses on renewal and trends in classical music.

The 2020 Innovation Award will be presented to the three winning recipients on May 20, 2020 in Rotterdam.

David Francis, Four Winds executive director, was delighted with news of the nomination.

"It is wonderful to know that we are recognised internationally among a cohort of truly impressive musicians and arts organisations," he said.

"We have long been saying that Four Winds is 'beyond the convert hall' and is an outstanding model for any arts organisation, let alone one based in a remote, rural context.

"To have our work and approach validated by his nomination is truly significant."

The nomination states Four Winds Easter Festival addresses a need to move beyond notions of 'classical' music and out of the straight jacket of the urban concert hall, to keep live music - classical and beyond - relevant, real, participatory and full of wonder.

"Four Winds demonstrates a way forward for music through the power of collaboration, community and natural beauty," it reads.

"The Four Winds site, with the 'Windsong' Pavilion and outdoor Sound Shell make it a world-class venue and a one-of-a-kind audience experience."

The reason given for the nomination is: "James Crabb and the entire Four Winds team deserve international recognition for their role in creating an organisation which punches above its weight on artistic excellence, audience development and social and cultural impact. The diverse and inventive approach to programming and the collaboration with and integration of activities into its community is truly unique".

The flagship event in Four Winds' year-round program of events is the Four Winds Easter Festival.

This internationally-regarded music festival is presented in Bermagui and celebrates classical music and all that has influenced it and is influenced by it.

The festival presents world-class performances from leading national and international musicians in its unique natural setting, set on 30acres of open bushland.

The Easter Festival runs over five days and comprises concerts, workshops, concerts in private homes and the Sound Shell outdoor amphitheatre.

Audiences can enjoy gourmet food local producers, wine and a picnic.

The 21st festival takes place between from April 8-12. For more information and tickets click here.