Trumpeter To Receive Honorary Doctorate From University of York

On December 8, 2020, the University of York (UK) announced three recipients for honorary degrees, one of whom is classical trumpeter Alison Balsom. An exclusive artist for Warner Records, Balsom has recorded over 14 albums with some of classical music’s greatest conductors, orchestras, and artists. Her collection of awards and recognitions include Artist of the Year (2013) at the Gramophone Classical Music Awards, three Echo Klassik Awards, and an appointment as Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2016. Balsom has previously received honorary doctorates from the University of Leicester and Anglia Ruskin University.

Recent performing highlights include the world premiere of Thea Musgrave’s Concerto for Trumpet, commissioned by the Cheltenham Music Festival, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Originally scheduled for July 2020 in the Hollywood Bowl, the U.S. premiere of this Concerto was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to Balsom, Olympic gold medalist Kelly Holmes and MIT Professor of Neuroscience Nancy Kanwisher will be receiving their honorary doctorates through online graduation ceremonies to be held in January 2021.

Photo Source: Warner Classics