We’re extremely proud to announce that our founder and director, Alexia Quin, has been awarded an OBE in The Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2021, in recognition of her contribution to music therapy.

The Honours List this year took a particular focus on the individuals who make us a ‘Caring Nation’. 62% of the recipients overall were acknowledged for their ‘outstanding work in their communities’.

Alexia had this to say on the matter:

“The first day of our first project in a village in Northern Romania was my 21st birthday. I thought this project was the culmination of a passion for music therapy combined with a burning wish to contribute to improving the opportunities for abandoned children and the local staff who were trying to meet their needs in desperate circumstances. Little did I realise it was actually the start of my life’s work. 

Receiving an OBE this weekend was pretty overwhelming and a proud moment indeed. It has also prompted me to reflect deeply on everything which has led me to this point: The challenges, difficulties and sadness of many of the vulnerable children and adults I’ve had the honour of working with over the years; the countless times when music has made it possible to connect with their resilience, potential and humour.  

I’ve been thinking about all the charity’s partners – the real unsung heroes – who turn to music to enrich the relationships they build with those in their care. But I’ve also been remembering all the people who took a 21-year-old seriously and supported my vision that music could and should be embedded into care practice in Romania and beyond; and the numerous music therapists and other experts who’ve helped us deliver, learn and develop along the way. Too many people to mention by name (it’s a long time since I was 21!) but I didn’t reach this point on my own. I’m just the lucky one to receive the accolade!”