On August 24, it was announced that King Charles III appointed Errollyn Wallen as Master of the King’s Music. The honorary appointment is bestowed upon a musician of distinction who adds to the musical life of the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. Although the role has no fixed duties, the Master of the King’s Music is charged with composing pieces for special royal occasions, including royal weddings, jubilees, and coronations.
Early Dedication To Music
Errollyn Wallen was born in Belize in 1958, but moved with her family to the United Kingdom when she was two. According to a profile by The Guardian, Wallen discovered her talent for the piano at age five. In the interview, she said she found herself dreaming of the piano and “found it very hard to be separated from it.” Before beginning her career as a composer, Wallen studied music at Goldsmiths College and the University of London. She earned her masters in composition from King’s College, Cambridge.
Her Award-Winning Career
On Errollyn Wallen’s website, those unfamiliar with the multiple award-winning composer and performer learn she has completed 22 operas and multiple orchestral, chamber, and vocal works. Wallen was the first black woman to have her work featured in the BBC Proms, a series of orchestral classic music concerts held daily for eight weeks every summer in the UK. Errollyn Wallen’s catalog of work has reached a global audience. Her biography also includes the designation of becoming the first black woman to receive a coveted Ivor Novello Award for Classical Music in 1998.
Previous Experience
Before her appointment, Errollyn Wallen composed pieces under Queen Elizabeth II. BBC reports Wallen’s work was featured in the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees. It was also reported Wallen was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by King Charles III when he was Prince of Wales. Furthermore, she was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2021 for her contributions to music.
According to the official royal statement, King Charles and Queen Camilla commissioned a performance of Wallen’s string orchestra, Photography (2006). The piece was performed by The Honours of Scotland Ensemble at the Service of Thanksgiving at St. Giles’ Cathedral in July 2023.
Final Thoughts
Errollyn Wallen’s appointment is a great opportunity for music to flourish. In response to her appointment, Wallen said she was thrilled to accept. She is stepping into the shoes of Dame Judith Weir DBE, the first woman appointed to the position in July 2014 by Queen Elizabeth II.
“I am thrilled to accept this royal appointment,” Wallen said in the royal statement. “It will be a privilege and a great honour to serve His Majesty The King, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. I look forward to championing music and music-making for all.” Congratulations, Errollyn Wallen!
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