Dame Judith Weir, born on 11 May 1954, is a celebrated British composer, recognised for her contributions to music. In 2014, she was appointed Master of the King’s Music, a prestigious role that marked her as the first woman to hold this position, appointed by Queen Elizabeth II. Weir grew up in a musical family in Cambridge, where her parents encouraged her passion for music. She began playing the oboe as a teenager and later studied at King’s College, Cambridge.

Her career took off with her composition “Where the Shining Trumpets Blow” in 1974. Weir is renowned for her operas, such as “The Black Spider” and “A Night at the Chinese Opera.” She often infuses her music with themes from history and Scottish traditions, reflecting her heritage. Over the years, she has received numerous awards, including being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2024, in recognition of her exceptional service to music.