MUMBAI: The International Confederation of Music Publishers (ICMP) has today revealed the honouree for the 2015 ICMP Ralph Peer II Award for Outstanding Contribution to Global Music Publishing - the unique and prestigious prize in the international music publishing field. Irwin Robinson, who is one of music publishing’s most respected and innovative leaders, was selected from nominees submitted by ICMP member organisations in over 70 countries.

Robinson is being honoured for his lifelong outstanding achievements in protecting and advancing the interests of the industry as a whole. The Award, initiated by ICMP in 2013, and named after its first honouree Ralph Peer II, recognises visionaries in the field of music publishing, whose roles have helped develop, protect and value the music of composers and authors around the world.

Serving as both a National Music Publishers' Association board member for over 40 years and as its Chairman for the last 30, Irwin Robinson has been a vigorous participant in numerous negotiations and initiatives, which have improved conditions for songwriters and for independent and major publishers.

Robinson also serves as Publisher Vice Chairman of the ASCAP Board, of which he has been a member for over 40 years, as a board member of The National Academy of Popular Music and as a custodian for The Songwriters' Hall of Fame.  He has been one of the most influential global industry executives for decades, having served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Famous Music Publishing, President and Chief Executive of EMI Music Publishing Worldwide and President of the legendary Chappell/Intersong Music Group.

“On behalf of ICMP and the community of music publishers internationally, I would like to congratulate Irwin as the recipient of the 2015 award for his dedication and accomplishments, not just in the field of music publishing, but amongst the wider community of creators and songwriters,” said ICMP chair of the board of directors, Andrew Jenkins.

Commenting on the Award, which is presented to an individual who has made a sustained and outstanding contribution to global music publishing, ICMP director general, Ger Hatton said, “This year’s honouree, Irwin Robinson, is an example of the passion and dedication an individual can bring to bear, that goes on to benefit the music industry as a whole.”

The Award Ceremony honouring Irwin Robinson will take place on 5 June at an invitational gala dinner being held during Midem in Cannes.