Classical music names in the 2011 New Year Honours list were led by English National Opera chairman Vernon Ellis and mezzo-soprano Felicity Palmer.

Ellis, who has been knighted, was a key supporter of the recent restoration of the English National Opera’s home, the London Coliseum, and is also chairman of the Classical Opera Company, as well as International Chairman of management consultants Accenture.

Also included on the Honours list is mezzo-soprano and music professor Felicity Joan Palmer, renowned for her international success in both concert and operatic repertoire. Palmer has been made a Dame for services to music, having been previously awarded a CBE.

Composer Colin Matthews has been awarded an OBE for his services to music, and broadcaster and composer Howard Goodall has received a CBE for his work in promoting music education in England.

Trumpet virtuoso and Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama Principal John Wallace has also received a CBE for his committed support of dance, music and drama education in Scotland.