RCO announces three Medal honorands
The Royal College of Organists is to recognise the achievements of three distinguished musicians by awarding them its highest honour, the RCO Medal, at a ceremony in March.
The Medal of the Royal College of Organists (‘The RCO Medal’) recognises distinguished achievement in one or more of the following areas relating to organ and choral music: performance, teaching, scholarship, composition, organ-building, conducting, administration, and philanthropy; it is also available to recognise specific service to the College.
At the College’s conferment ceremony in Southwark Cathedral on 8 March 2025, the RCO Medal will be awarded to (pictured clockwise from top left):
Ms Sofi Jeannin, in recognition of distinguished achievement in choral directing (announced in 2024);
Mr Gary Cole, in recognition of distinguished achievement in organ and choral recording; and
Dr Cecilia McDowall, in recognition of distinguished achievement in organ and choral composition.
RCO President Sarah MacDonald said: “The 2025 honorands are eminent leaders in the artistic world, and it is a privilege for the College to celebrate their remarkable achievements by awarding them our highest honour, the RCO Medal. All three have shaped the musical landscape over many decades, and have been inspirational figures for generations of musicians, students and professionals alike, including for me personally.
“We very much look forward to welcoming them to our conferment ceremony in March, where I have the particular honour of presenting the Medals. At the ceremony we will also award our prestigious diplomas and certificates to our many members who have achieved success in their studies and examinations over the past year.”