Original Music Awards Dorset 2025: A Celebration of Local Talent
On January 17, 2026, the Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth played host to the fourth annual Original Music Awards Dorset (OMA), a night dedicated to honoring the incredible talent flourishing within the local music scene. Organized by the dynamic duo of Matt Black and Mel Berkhauer, the event drew inspiration from the late Thom Belk’s Salisbury Music Awards, aiming to put a well-deserved spotlight on Dorset’s diverse musical landscape.
Black and Berkhauer, who operate the excelent Hangover Hill recording studio in Wimborne Minster, are passionate advocates for original music. The OMA is a labor of love, with all proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships funneled back into supporting the event and promoting future opportunities for artists.
As attendees settled into the venue, it was evident that the night would be a lively affair, with around 350-400 guests in attendance, spanning generations of musicians and music lovers. Over the course of four hours, a total of thirty-one awards were presented, celebrating the many facets of the vibrant local scene.
Among the standout moments, Helena Mace, a Bournemouth-based country pop singer, received the prestigious Eclectic Achievement Award. Currently working on her eighth album, Mace’s previous works have topped the iTunes country charts, and her remarkable journey as a registered deaf artist serves as a powerful inspiration to many.
Chasing Leaves, a solo artist from Poole, won the Best Under 18 Artist award. With a passion for live performance and an influence from top artists like Dua Lipa and Ed Sheeran, her future looks bright.
The young band Wytch made waves by winning both Best Breakthrough Act and Best Album. Their sound, reminiscent of 70s rock, features captivating melodies and strong instrumentation that has garnered them praise from radio stations worldwide.
Collecting the “Best Songwriter” Award was renound troubadour Shep “Rough Dog” Elliot.
Recognizing those behind the scenes, Lyn MacKenzie (pictured above) was honored as Grassroots Music Hero for her unwavering support of local and touring talent at her Weymouth venues. Such gigs and legendary jam sessions have become a jewel in weymouth’s live music scene. Dixie Dix took home the Independent Promoter award, celebrating her contributions through the Originality Live event series. Additionally, Kirsten Stevens received the In-House Award for her work at the Bear Cave, which was also named Best Original Music Venue.
Renowned artist Ben Waters was acknowledged for his commitment to mentoring emerging musicians, while the Absolute Music shop was celebrated for its community contributions through music education.
The Alex J T Ward Award, named in memory of a local musician who faced challenges related to Asperger’s Syndrome, was presented to Sanguis Mortem, a band whose drummer, Oli, has overcome similar challenges.
The evening’s guest of honor, singer-songwriter Billy Bragg, was recognized for his influence on the local music scene, although he could not attend due to touring commitments.
The Original Music Awards Dorset showcased the immense talent and creativity in the region, leaving attendees inspired and eager for future events.
Full List of Winners:
Accessibility & Inclusivity: The Angel, Poole
Best Tech Support: Luke Ayliss
Eclectic Achievement: Helena Mace
Open To All Award: Bournemouth Electronic Music Open Mic
Supporting Original Music: The Tap and Grape, Broadstone
Best Under 18 Artist: Chasing Leaves
Best Breakthrough Act: Wytch
Grassroots Hero: Lyn MacKenzie
Best Hard Rock Metal Act: Banasar
Hometown Harmony Award: Rob Hoare
Best Songwriter: Ruffdog Elliott
Dan Meazza Award (Best Guitarist): Romeo Kennedy
Independent Promoter: Dixie Dix
Unsung Hero: The Mistakes
In-House Promoter: Kirsten Stevens
Unwavering Support To Local Musicians: Ben Waters
Original Music Venue: The Bear Cave, Bournemouth
Best Festival: Shaftesbury Fringe
The Alex JT Award: Sanguis Mortem
For Services to the Community: Absolute Music
Best Recorded Work (Single): Nia Nicholls
Best Recorded Work (EP): Velour
Best Recorded Work (Album): Wytch
Putting Dorset on the Map: Billy Bragg
Best Video: Dixie Dix
Inspirational Award: Dan Baker
Best Live Act: Dead Horse Bay
Lifetime Achievement Award: Paul Tucker
Best Solo Act: Jack Grace
Best Small Band: Velour
Best Band: Two Man Travelling Medicine Show