Classical album of the year for solo or chamber ensemble was awarded to Les Violons du Roy, the Quebec City chamber orchestra formed in 1984 by conductor Bernard Labadie. The group was chosen for its recording of Piazzolla, released on the ATMA Classique label last October. It is the first recording by Jean-Marie Zeitouni, the ensemble's associate conductor.

The Mozart Anniversary Orchestra, founded by Ehnes, won for its recording (with Ehnes as soloist) of Mozart violin concertos on CBC Records/Universal.

Honors for best vocal or choral performance went to a recording of Mozart arias on CBC Records/Universal by Bayrakdarian, tenor Michael Schade and baritone Russell Braun with the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra led by Richard Bradshaw.

Denis Gougeon's Clere Venus won best classical composition of the year.

The annual awards (now in their 36th year) also honor musicians in the pop, rock, reggae and jazz categories, among others.