Dame Sarah Connolly is to receive the King’s Medal for Music, Buckingham Palace has announced.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the committee described the internationally renowned mezzo-soprano as “an exceptional artist” and role model, and commended her for her advocacy for greater support for the arts.

On hearing of the award, Dame Sarah Connolly said:

"I feel incredibly honoured to receive this medal from my peers, and from King Charles whose personal involvement in the Arts means so much. The United Kingdom’s musical influence is global, and cannot be underestimated. Our success will continue with supportive, loud voices."

Dame Sarah was invested as a DBE in the 2017 Birthday Honours, having been awarded a CBE in the 2010 New Year Honours.In 2020 she was made an Honorary Member of the Royal Philharmonic Society in recognition of her services to music.

First established as The Queen’s Medal for Music in 2005, the award is given annually to an outstanding individual or group of musicians who have had a major influence on the musical life of the nation. Previous recipients include Sir Thomas Allen, Imogen Cooper and Nicola Benedetti.

The nominating process for the award is overseen by a committee chaired by the Master of The King’s Music, Judith Weir, who said:

“A world-renowned British singer, much loved by her listeners and admired by her colleagues; Dame Sarah is a passionate defender of musical education, the musical profession, and the art of music itself. It is very good news that we can celebrate her exemplary career with the award of The King’s Medal for Music”.

Dame Sarah will be awarded the Medal during an Audience with His Majesty in 2024.