Chief executive of charity that runs Bristol Beacon receives honorary degree

The chief executive of the charity set up to manage Bristol Beacon, the renowned music venue in the city, has been awarded an honorary degree by UWE Bristol.

Louise Mitchell CBE, CEO of Bristol Music Trust, received an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree in recognition of her contribution to national and international cultural leadership and her dedication to voluntary roles. 

The University conferred the honour on 16 July, as part of UWE Bristol’s summer series of graduation ceremonies held at Bristol Beacon.

Louise is among nine people being celebrated with honorary degrees at the ceremonies, in recognition of outstanding achievements in their chosen fields and significant contributions to Bristol.

She oversaw the Bristol Beacon’s £132 million transformation, which was the largest arts capital programme in the South West ahead of its opening in November 2023. Bristol Music Trust was set up to manage Bristol Beacon: the music charity, historic venue and award-winning music education hub, and take a regional overview of music promotion.

Louise is Chair of National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain, a member of Arts Council England’s South West Area Council, a trustee of Impact Scotland, the Paraorchestra and a Council member of the Royal Philharmonic Society.

Previously, Louise was the Director of the Glasgow UNESCO City of Music and Glasgow Concert Halls, as well as Concerts Director for the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Assistant Director of the Edinburgh International Festival.

A modern languages graduate, her first professional assignment was as a French interpreter in Provence for a Pipe Band from Hawick in the Scottish borders. 

She has lived and worked in Bristol since 2011 when Bristol Music Trust was formed.

Louise said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive this prestigious degree from the University of the West of England. I’m delighted that our work to make great music available to everyone at Bristol Beacon is being recognised.”