The Director of Music at a popular church in Harrow has been named on the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Since his retirement, former music teacher Timothy Smith has become busier than ever; from founding and directing Kids Choir in Harrow five years ago to running Castle Choir in Berkhamsted and Phoenix Mandolin in St Albans, Timothy’s life is as immersed in music as ever.
Although he no longer teaches music in schools, the retiree has continued to act as the Director of Music at St Mary’s Church in Harrow since his retirement. However, this year is Tim’s last at St Mary’s in Harrow – after 19-and-a-half years, the British Empire Medallist is moving on to pastures new in Rickmansworth.
Speaking of his career, Tim said: “I wear many different hats, but all involve music and education in some shape or form.”
“Music is so central to life in so many ways. There are a few of us working very hard to keep music alive in schools for future generations.”
Whilst he was “shocked” and “humbled” to be awarded a British Empire Medal, Tim suggested that his acceptance would be on behalf of all those doing everything can to keep music alive in both curriculum and community.
“I like to think I’ve done some good work over the years, but there are other people who have made significant contributions and who haven’t received this same accolade,” he explained.
“I suppose that I have a bit of imposter syndrome – questions like ‘why me’ and that sort of thing. However, I’m flying the flag for all those colleagues who deserve this award just as much as I do.”
0 Comments