Rosemary Johnson appointed MBE

Rosemary Johnson, Executive Director of the Royal Philharmonic Society, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's 2018 Birthday Honours List for services to music.

In recognition of this contribution, the RPS Apprentice Composer scheme at the Wigmore Hall will be renamed in her honour: The Rosie Johnson RPS/Wigmore Hall Composer Apprenticeship. The apprenticeship, which was launched in 2017, includes a commission for an emerging composer*, and opportunities to attend rehearsals and performances at Wigmore Hall, and to observe and take part in Learning workshops and events, as well as mentoring by the Wigmore Hall’s own Composer in Residence.

Rosie will step down from her role with the RPS in July, after two decades with the Society. RPS Chairman, John Gilhooly, comments: “Rosie Johnson has made an outstanding and pre-eminent contribution over 20 years to the Royal Philharmonic Society and to the musical life of the country.”

Rosie Johnson comments: “It’s been a huge privilege to work with so many outstanding performers, composers, colleagues and generous volunteers at the Royal Philharmonic Society. I’m hugely delighted that the work we have done has been recognised with this honour. I’m also tremendously proud that my name will be associated with the RPS/Wigmore Hall composer apprenticeship in years to come – this is a project very dear to my heart.”