Both artists have steadily built national and international attention. McCreadie was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize in 2022 for Forest Floor, while Webb followed with a 2025 shortlist for Hamstrings & Hurricanes.

These latest awards mark a continued rise, positioning them among the most important voices in UK jazz today.

McCreadie’s music draws on Scottish folk traditions, shaping a melodic and spacious trio sound developed closely with David Bowden and Stephen Henderson. The Shieling captures that clarity and connection, and is now followed by The Shieling – Companion Pieces, a new six-track release from the same recording sessions.

Webb brings a sharply defined identity rooted in stride piano, reworked with a modern rhythmic feel and live energy. His growing profile includes support from Jools Holland, introducing his music to wider audiences, alongside the upcoming release of his new album Neath Beat in May 2026.

Speaking about the award, McCreadie said: “It feels unreal. This album was such an amazing experience, recording for five days tucked away in a cottage in North Uist with Stephen and David, and it’s our favourite record we’ve made yet. Thanks so much to Yamaha for getting the piano up to Uist (we couldn’t have done it without them), to Creative Scotland for their invaluable championing of jazz in Scotland, to JazzFM for all the support over the years, and to everyone who’s listened and who voted for the album – it means the world.”

Webb added: “Playing piano is my favourite thing to do so to get this award means a lot. Can’t wait to keep going”.

These awards recognise two charismatic and individual voices shaping British jazz today. They also reflect a wider vision – backing artists with a clear identity, long-term development, and the confidence to build their own path, connecting distinct musical languages with audiences across the UK and beyond.