“Kokyuu” by Luís Tinoco wins Best Classical Album at the Play Awards 2026

Kokyuu, the acclaimed album by Portuguese composer Luís Tinoco, has been awarded Best Classical Album at the Play Awards 2026 — one of the most prestigious recognitions in the national music scene. The distinction celebrates a work that stands out for its sonic depth, singular artistic identity, and technical excellence.

The album was recorded and produced by N Studio Lisbon, further affirming the studio’s reputation for delivering work of the highest quality. The collaboration between composer and production team resulted in a recording of great refinement, where every sonic detail was crafted with precision and care.

Kokyuu — the Japanese word for “breath” — is an invitation to attentive listening and inner stillness. Tinoco’s work draws from both European contemporary music and Eastern influences, forging a language of its own that transcends geographical and aesthetic boundaries.

Play Awards 2026

The PLAY Awards are presented annually by Audiogest, in partnership with RTP and with the sponsorship of Vodafone, recognising the best of music production in Portugal. The ceremony for the 8th edition took place on 23 April 2026, at the Coliseu dos Recreios in Lisbon, broadcast live on RTP1.