Jess Gillam among musicians to receive Queen's Birthday Honours

Jess Gillam, the first ever saxophonist to be signed to Decca Classics, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours. 

Gillam commented: ‘I feel extremely touched to receive this award, especially in a year where so many people have done such incredible and selfless things. It’s very unexpected and a complete surprise - I’m very grateful to all of those who have supported me and to have had the opportunity to learn an instrument in the first place. Music has changed my life and I‘m passionate about sharing its magic with other people!’

Gillam shot to fame after she performed at the Last Night of the Proms in 2018. While in lockdown she launched a Virtual Scratch Orchestra, inviting musicians of any standard to come together to play music virtually with her.

Elsewhere in classical music, cellist and former principal of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire iJulian Lloyd Webber was awarded an OBE for services to music. 

World renowned pianist Imogen Cooper was made a Dame, while founder of Opera Holland Park Michael Volpe was awarded an OBE.

British composer Huw Watkins, and opera singer Dr Jeremy Huw Williams, are also recognised for their services to music and charity.