Academy alumni Max Richter and Richard Farnes have both been awarded CBEs in this year's honours list.
Max Richter received this honour in recognition of his outstanding contribution to British culture, advocacy and the wider community. He composed the score for the much-anticipated new film Hamnet from director Chloé Zhao, which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Score and will be released later this month. He has scored or provided music for more than 50 film projects over his career. In addition to releasing his new album ‘Sleep Circle’ in September via Deutsche Grammophon, he recently announced a European tour in 2026.
I am deeply grateful to have been recognised. This recognition, and receiving a CBE, is something I am profoundly thankful for.
Max Richter
Richard Farnes has enjoyed a distinguished career that spans both symphonic music and opera. His contributions to music have been recognised with a range of prestigious awards, including the 2017 Royal Philharmonic Society Conductor of the Year Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Critics’ Circle Music Awards and the Achievement in Opera Award at the UK Theatre Awards in 2014.
Honorary Members of the Academy Cynthia Erivo and Matt Lucas received an MBE and OBE respectively.
The Academy’s students, staff and Governing Body offer their warmest congratulations to everyone honoured this year.