The Queen’s Medal for Music 2011

The Queen has approved the award of Her Majesty’s Medal for Music to oboist and conductor Nicholas Daniel. The prize, established in 2005, is awarded to an outstanding individual or group of musicians who have had a major influence on the musical life of the nation.

Mr Daniel will be presented with the award by The Queen at an audience later this year. An informal announcement will be made by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies on 29th January at a musical performance at King’s College Cambridge in which Mr. Daniel is taking part.

Nicholas Daniel is the seventh winner of the award and follows in the footsteps of well known recipients such as Bryn Terfel, Sir Colin Davis and Dame Emma Kirkby.

Nicholas Daniel says, “I feel deeply honoured and truly delighted to receive The Queen’s Medal for Music in this exciting year for Great Britain. As a performer my job is to serve the composers I perform as best I can, so to have my vocation acknowledged in this way is really wonderful. As a solo Oboist, chamber musician, conductor and teacher I have been extremely privileged to have worked, and to continue to work with so many great musicians.”

Sir Peter Maxwell Davies says, “I am delighted to announce Nicholas Daniel as the recipient of this year’s Award. I can’t think of a more deserving person given his reputation not only as one of our most highly regarded oboists but also a leading ambassador for the musical life of the nation. Many people know Nicholas as a passionate advocate of baroque and 19th century music but he has also proven a driving force behind new repertoire for his instrument. Long may he continue to spread his passion and knowledge for music throughout Great Britain and beyond.”