Aubrey Adams OBE, Chairman of the Wigmore Hall Trust said, ‘I am delighted that John has been recognised for his contribution to the culture life of this country, particularly his display of leadership, resilience and resourcefulness in bringing music to the nation under tremendously challenging circumstances over the past two years. The honour is also a testament to his great voluntary work outside his role at Wigmore Hall in helping many charities and organisations.’

Adrian O’Neill, Ambassador of Ireland to the United Kingdom, said, ‘As Artistic and Executive Director of the prestigious Wigmore Hall for the past 16 years, John Gilhooly has made an immense contribution to the celebration, promotion and development of classical music. This honour conferred on him by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth is an apt and richly deserved recognition of that distinguished record of service, which has benefitted singers, musicians and music lovers across these islands and for which I warmly congratulate John.’

Born in Limerick Ireland, Gilhooly became Director of Wigmore Hall in 2005, at age 32, making him the youngest director of any of the world’s leading concert halls. Currently staging more than 500 concerts and events each year, Wigmore Hall is home to UK’s largest classical music concert programme. Gilhooly is also Chairman of the Royal Philharmonic Society, one of the oldest music societies in the world. He was awarded an OBE in 2013.