Sir Peter Maxwell Davies New Year Honour
2nd January 2014
The Order of the Companions of Honour is an order of the Commonwealth realms which was founded by King George V in 1917, as a reward for outstanding achievements in the arts, literature, music, science, politics, industry, or religion. The order consists of the Sovereign, plus no more than 65 Companions of Honour. Previous recipients for the arts include Sir Nicholas Serota, Sir Harrison Birtwistle, David Hockney and Dame Janet Baker.
Max, on receiving the news, said:
“I am delighted to be joining such distinguished company in receiving the Order of the Companions of Honour. It is vital that society acknowledges the importance of the arts and related fields, and, for me, this honour is recognition for the art of composition and classical music in general. Anything that raises the profile of our art form is both wonderful and most welcome.”
This news comes at the beginning of a very busy year for Max as he celebrates his 80th birthday in 2014. New works to look forward to in the new year include a work for organ, brass and 180–strong children’s choir for the Organ Gala Launch Concert at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London on 18 March. Details of this concert can be found here.
