We were delighted to learn that John Lubbock, artistic director of the Orchestra of St John’s, has received an OBE in the 2015 New Year’s Honours List.
John has been acknowledged for his services to the arts and for his charitable endeavours. He founded groundbreaking charity Music for Autism with his wife Christine Cairns after discovering the transformational impact that music had on the their autistic son Alexander. The journey began in 1992, when they decided to share their love of music with other individuals with autism and their families via a CD and a series of interactive concerts. Families note that the concerts help fill a major psychosocial void, enabling them to enjoy enriching activities that are inclusive and to experience the joy and power of music as a family.
Oxfordshire Community Foundation has supported the work of John’s charity via a series of grants. In particular, the charity is one of three beneficiaries of the High Sheriff’s Challenge, an initiative championed by Tony Stratton, High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, that encouraged 25 local companies to raise money for charity. This has provided a significant boost to their funds, with OCF’s support.
Many congratulations to John for this well-deserved acknowledgement of his passion and hard work.
Find out more about some of the charities we have supported