Celebrated composer and singer-songwriter Errollyn Wallen has been appointed Master of the King’s Music by King Charles, marking a historic moment in the world of music and royal appointments.
Wallen, who was born in Belize and is now based in the UK, has an impressive musical career that includes composing music for the London 2012 Paralympic Games and being the first black woman to have a work featured in the Proms. Her talent and dedication to music have not gone unnoticed, as she has now been granted the prestigious role of Master of the King’s Music.
“I am thrilled to accept this royal appointment,” Wallen said in response to the news. The role, which was created in the reign of King Charles I, is granted by the sovereign to a musician who contributes to the musical life of the UK and the Commonwealth.
While there are no set duties in the honorary role, the Master of the King’s Music will often compose pieces for special royal occasions such as coronations and royal weddings. Wallen has already been commissioned to compose pieces marking the Golden and Diamond Jubilees of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles’s mother.
Wallen succeeds Dame Judith Weir, the first woman to hold the role, who was chosen by Queen Elizabeth II in July 2014. The role now has a fixed term of 10 years, similar to the position of poet laureate.
Describing the role as “a privilege and a great honour,” Wallen expressed her excitement to champion music and music-making for all. Her impressive musical background, which includes being made an MBE by Charles and a CBE by the Princess Royal for her services to music, has solidified her as a respected figure in the industry.
Despite facing backlash for her work, such as creating a new version of Jerusalem dedicated to the Windrush generation, Wallen continues to push boundaries and make her mark in the world of classical music. Her dedication to her craft and her innovative approach to composition have earned her a well-deserved place as the Master of the King’s Music.
