Royal College of Organists announces 2026 Medal recipients

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 Saturday 7 March 2026, the RCO Medal will be awarded to:

Prof. Bine Bryndorf, in recognition of distinguished achievement in organ performance and pedagogy;
Mr Gabriel Jackson, in recognition of distinguished achievement in organ and choral composition; and
Mr Paul Spicer, in recognition of distinguished achievement in choral conducting and pedagogy, and scholarship.

RCO President Sarah MacDonald said: “Our 2026 honorands represent exceptional accomplishment in performance, composition, and education, and their influence is felt throughout the musical world.

"In the organ- and choral-specific sphere, their work as teachers, performers, and recording artists has elevated standards and inspired musicians of all stages. The composers have made a significant and lasting contribution to the core repertoire, and the scholars' research has been influential and ground-breaking. It is an honour and a delight for the College to acknowledge their achievements with the RCO Medal.

“We look forward to welcoming them to Southwark Cathedral in March for the annual Conferment of Diplomas, the ceremonial highlight of the College’s calendar. At this event, it is a particular privilege for me to have the opportunity to meet and congratulate personally the many musicians who have worked so hard to achieve recognition and accreditation in our examinations and diplomas, as well as to present the RCO Medal to these worthy recipients.”