Composer Colin Mawby, founder of the RTÉ National Chamber Choir, has been awarded the Papal Order of Knighthood of St Gregory.

Mawby has received this award from Pope Benedict XVI in gratitude for past and continuing services to church music. Of the five pontifical orders of knighthood in the Catholic Church, it is the highest honour that a layman can attain. The order is bestowed on Catholic men in recognition of their service to the Church and the good example set in their communities and country.

Colin Mawby currently holds the title of Conductor Emeritus of the National Chamber Choir (NCC) and was its Artistic Director from 1991 to 2000. He is also a past Director of Music of Westminster Cathedral, London. His works are performed all over the world by both professional and amateur choirs. As a conductor he has worked with many of Europe's top chamber ensembles but above all he has devoted himself to the development of choirs and choral music. The NCC's two operas for children were written by him and have been performed by primary school children in Ireland over the last 11 years.

Mawby also celebrates his 70th birthday this year, and will conduct the National Chamber Choir in a celebratory concert in the National Gallery of Ireland. The concert includes performances of his Prayer of Forgiveness, Nine Marian Anthems and Jubilate Jazz.

The concert takes place in the National Gallery of Ireland on Thursday, 11 May 2006 at 6.30 pm. For details please visit the Calendar.

Posted: 20 April 2006