GLENN CLOSE - BELL LANDS MAJOR CLASSICAL HONOUR

Violinist JOSHUA BELL has been selected as the first recipient of the coveted Avery Fisher Prize for three years. The classical music star will pick up his honour and $75,000 (GBP38,460) prize money from actress GLENN CLOSE on Tuesday (10APR07) in New York. Only 18 people have claimed the top classical award, given to those who reach excellence in music. Past recipients include EDGAR MEYER and YO YO MA. And Bell is set for another honour on Tuesday - he'll feature in animated form in the DENNIS THE MENACE comic, which hits stores on the same day.