The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester has announced that Sir Mark Elder CBE is to become a Companion of the College.

Halle

Sir Mark is widely recognised one of the world's leading conductors and since 2000 has been Music Director of the Halle Orchestra and was appointed the RNCM's International Chair in Conducting in 2002.

Between 1979 and 1993 he was Music Director of English National Opera, and from 1989 to 1994 worked in the same position for Rochester Philharmonic in the USA. Sir Mark has also served as Principal Guest Conductor with the CBSO, BBC Symphony Orchestra and London Mozart Players.

Privilege

Professor Linda Merrick, RNCM Principal, said: "It's an absolute privilege to welcome Sir Mark Elder as a Companion of the RNCM.

For many years, Sir Mark has played an integral part in enhancing the College's reputation as a leading international conservatoire, both independently and as Music Director of the Halle, one of the College's professional partners.

As our International Chair in Conducting, he is a huge inspiration to our young conductors, orchestral musicians and singers, and it is fitting that the RNCM is recognising his invaluable contribution in this way.'

List

Sir Mark joins a list that includes the likes of Sir Charles Groves (1983), Ida Carroll OBE (1986), Sir Simon Towneley (1990), Sir Dennis Foreman (1993), Michael Kennedy CBE (1999) and Professor Edward Gregson (2008).

I find my work as International Chair in Conducting constantly stimulating and challenging and look forward to continuing to help in the development of ever higher standards in the years to comeSi Mark Elder

Thrilled

Sir Mark added: "I am thrilled and feel greatly honoured to follow in the footsteps of the small and hugely distinguished group to have held this mark of distinction.

I find my work as International Chair in Conducting constantly stimulating and challenging and look forward to continuing to help in the development of ever higher standards in the years to come.

It is wonderful that the College has chosen to support me in this way and I know that the RNCM and the Halle will continue to act in partnership at the heart of musical life in Manchester.'

Award

Companionship of the RNCM will be conferred at the College's annual Congregation of Awards ceremony on Tuesday 6th December.