The Belize-born British composer Errollyn Wallen has been named the next Master of the King’s Music, succeeding Dame Judith Weir after her decade in the role. Wallen is the first Black musician and only the second woman to occupy this prestigious position.
The title of Master of the King’s Music, established in 1626 during the reign of Charles I when Nicholas Lanier was appointed, involves composing pieces for significant royal events and recognising contributions to the nation’s musical life.
At the age of 66, Wallen’s impressive body of work encompasses orchestral, choral, and chamber music, along with 22 operas and success as a singer-songwriter. She holds a British Composer Award, an Ivor Composers Award, an MBE from the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2007, and a CBE from the 2020 New Year Honours.
In response to her appointment, Wallen expressed her excitement: “I am thrilled to accept this royal appointment… I look forward to championing music and music-making for all.”
Wallen released her memoir, *Becoming a Composer*, late last year. The book uncovers both the uplifting and challenging episodes of her life and career. Born in Belize, Wallen moved to the UK with her family, who then left her and her siblings in the care of an aunt and uncle. This period of her life sparked her interest in music and composition, leading her to study at Goldmiths’ and King’s College, Cambridge.
The memoir reveals her journey through significant personal trials, such as a suicide attempt during her late teens, and her work in the pop music industry. She articulates the importance of poetry and words in her life and dedication to teaching and mentorship. Wallen currently resides in a converted lighthouse in northern Scotland.
In a December 2023 interview about her book, Wallen highlighted the misconceptions about composers: “There’s this myth about what a composer is – I know that a composer can come from anywhere. Things that happen in our life make us who we are and it would have been a mistake to leave some of those things out.”
Wallen will carry out her duties as Master of the King’s Music for the next decade, following the establishment of a fixed-term when Sir Peter Maxwell Davies assumed the position in 2004. Notable predecessors include Sir Edward Elgar, Sir Walford Davies, Sir Arnold Bax, and Sir Arthur Bliss.
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