New Master of The Queen's Music

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT IS ISSUED BY THE PRESS SECRETARY TO THE QUEEN

The Queen has appointed Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, 69, as the new Master of The Queen's Music for a 10-year period.

Sir Peter, who lives in the Orkney Islands, is a leading British composer and conductor.

He recently completed 10 years as Conductor/Composer of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London, the Composer/Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic in Manchester, and has also conducted many orchestras in Europe and North America. He is currently Composer Laureate of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.

The term of this position has been changed from "life" to 10 years to give more composers the opportunity to take up this honorary position. The Master of The Queen's Music will be paid an honorary stipend for his work.