Page 527 - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Coverage Book 2023-24

The chief executive of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic has been made an
Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in The King's first New Year's

Honours list for services to music.

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Michael Eakin has been in the position at the Royal Liverpool

Philharmonic since 2008 and in that time has led the organisation through a
significant growth including a £14m refurbishment of the hall, sustained

audience growth and a number of community projects. He oversees the

organisation's award-winning Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and
associated ensembles and choirs, a music learning and talented development

programme and the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

Speaking about his award, Mr Eakin said: "I am proud and grateful to be

awarded this honour. Throughout my career it has been a joy to work in the

arts, and nowhere more so than at Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. This
organisation is central to the cultural identity and life of Liverpool, and,

indeed, the UK.

"It reaches right across our community, entertaining and inspiring hundreds
of thousands of people through our concert and learning

programmes. Liverpool Philharmonic enjoys immense support from local

people and partners, and I can think of no better city in which to lead a music

organisation.

"I am privileged to work with an incredible team of colleagues and this award
is as much a recognition for their work and dedication as it is for me."

Mr Eakin joined Liverpool Philharmonic from Arts Council England, where he

had been executive director for the north west for seven years. Before that he

was director of arts and leisure for Reading Borough Council. His initial career