Here we are again, with the world’s most prestigious classical music awards celebrating the finest recordings of the year – and a formidable list it is. Given all of this excellence this seems like a suitable moment to reflect on the state of the classical music world. By which I mean, not whether all this music is good enough for us, but whether we as a global society are good enough for it.

A big question, perhaps best answered by some brief observations. Levels of music education are in some ways rising. Communities are more involved than for decades thanks to the fine PR job done by Venezuela’s El Sistema and its ever-multiplying spin-offs. The new generation of star musicians are spending real time on masterclasses and outreach work, while orchestras themselves are by now proficient in this area.

Switch in tone. It is ever harder to get classical music seriously discussed in the mainstream media. When Sir Charles Mackerras died one major BBC news programme referred to him as a composer. When Cesare Siepi died not many non-classical broadcasters referred to him at all. This year has seen the closure of yet more major and much-loved classical record shops. Post-recession budget cuts threaten many arts organisations.

Switch again. Record label heads tell me that sales are doing fine compared with recent years. Online continues to grow but there are also some bricks-and-mortar outlets that, with the right can-do will-do attitude, continue to flourish. There are more labels and festivals than ever and, so, more places for musicians to get noticed. Live concert promoters report excellent attendance levels. Classical music is booming in China.

There is much reason for optimism, some for concern. What seems certain is that, come what may, great recordings will continue to flow. And, don’t forget, starting now you can hear long excerpts from our Award-winners and Editor’s Choice discs – and much more, including filmed highlights from the Awards ceremony itself – on our online Gramophone Player. Log on, enjoy!

james.inverne@haymarket.com