Neville Marriner wins Gramophone Outstanding Achievement Award

17 September 2014, 20:11 | Updated: 18 September 2014, 10:04

Sir Neville Marriner received a standing ovation as he came to the stage to collect his award.

Sir Neville was presented with his Outstanding Achievement award by the legendary pianist Alfred Brendel at this year's Gramophone Awards at St John's Smith Square.

On presenting the award, Alfred Brendel said: "I realise that I'm only a morsel in your extensive career and I know I have to congratulate you for so many glorious achievements, including this one."

Sir Neville, who turned 90 this year, said: "I've spent this year celebrating a great age, and every time I'm asked about it, I have a very smart answer - I chose my parents very carefully! I've managed to work with the best people in my profession. Then we were lucky enough to be taken up by the record industry, who have pretty much looked after us, extensively, ever since."

Born in 1924 in Lincoln, Sir Neville had the extraordinary early experience of playing the violin with great orchestras including the LSO, under such conductors as Sir Henry Wood. In 1959, having been asked to put on a series of concerts for the London church of St Martin-in-the-Fields, Marriner formed his small ensemble. He has made hundreds of recordings with the Academy and other orchestras, covering the full gamut of the 18th, 19th and 20th century repertoires.

Gallery: Sir Neville Marriner - A life in pictures >

In 1979 Marriner was made a CBE and in 1985, he received a knighthood. In his 90s, Sir Neville remains committed to the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. He is its Life President and continues to conduct the orchestra at home and on tour.