The award was presented to Simon by the Queen during a reception at Buckingham Palace, followed by a performance from the London Symphony Orchestra. It came as a great surprise to Simon, who is quoted as saying, “I am so surprised and thrilled to receive this extraordinary honour from Her Majesty the Queen. Choral music is a vital part of our national life and is such a force for social and educational good. I’d like to see this medal as recognition of the work of a whole generation of dedicated choral musicians.”

Following this prestigious award, Simon was honoured with the CBE for services to music in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2015.