The 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, announced on 14 June, included a number of musicians and classical music figures recognised for their services to the art form, spanning performance, education, festival leadership and equality in the industry

Alexander Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House and Royal Ballet, has been appointed a Knight Bachelor for services to the arts. Since joining the ROH in 2013, Beard has led major institutional developments including the creation of the Linbury Theatre, increased digital outreach, and expanded education and engagement initiatives. His leadership through the pandemic and response to reductions in public funding were also widely noted.

Gabriella Di Laccio, soprano and founder of the Donne Foundation, has been awarded an MBE for services to music and gender equality. The foundation has become an influential voice in highlighting the underrepresentation of women in classical music, producing research reports, commissioning new works, and curating performances that focus on neglected repertoire by women composers. Di Laccio described the award as 'a call to keep making a difference through my music and my actions'. 

Others recognised for their contributions to music include Angela Dixon, Chief Executive of Saffron Hall, who received an MBE, recognising her leadership in building the hall into a respected regional centre for music performance and education. Ann Atkinson, opera singer and Artistic Director of the North Wales International Festival, was awarded an MBE for services to music in Wales and Angus Tulloch, founding trustee of the Scottish Schools Pipes and Drums Trust, was similarly awarded an MBE for his support of music education rooted in Scotland’s traditional musical heritage.

From the broader performing arts, Elaine Paige was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to music and charity. Best known for her pioneering work in Musical Theatre, Paige also continues to influence British musical culture through her broadcast and charitable work.

For the full list, visit www.gov.uk