Honours systems used to pay tribute to philanthropists

Vernon Ellis has received a Knighthood for services to music. He is International Chairman at Accenture, and Chairman of English National Opera and the Classical Opera Company.

He is also a trustee of the Royal College of Music, the Kathleen Ferrier Awards and the Florestan Trust, and Chairman of Mission, Models and Money. Ellis said of his gifts: “Most, but not all, have been to music organisations in which I have some involvement”. Philanthropists Janice Blackburn and Robert Bowman both receive OBEs, for services to the arts, and services to music and arts, respectively. Blackburn has donated to organisations including Tate, Whitechapel galleries and the National Opera Studio. Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt’s recently announced plans to boost arts philanthropy included a proposal for more visible public recognition for philanthropy, including greater recognition through the honours system.