Northern Ireland musician receives MBE from Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal

Northern Ireland musician Ashley Fulton has received a MBE for services to music from Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal.

The renowned vocal coach and musical director was honoured during a recent Investiture at Windsor Castle.

Ashley said: "It was both an immense honour and a humbling experience to be recognised with an MBE in the New Year's Honours List.

"This award is not just a reflection of my journey in music but a testament to the incredible talents and dedication of the individuals I've had the privilege to work with. Music has the power to unite, inspire, and transform, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its lifeblood in Northern Ireland.

"This MBE is absolutely a shared celebration with every student, colleague, and collaborator who has been a part of my remarkable musical journey.”

Born in Magherafelt and based in Lisburn, Ashley has a well-respected career spanning nearly 25 years during which time he has been committed to nurturing talent and inspiring others to achieve their full potential.

This prestigious award recognises his significant impact on music in Northern Ireland and marks him as a true pioneer in the industry.

Ashley, who is artist director of Adoro, which is a choir he formed over 15 years ago, explained: I went to the Investiture with three friends and it was lovely to share this special event with them. Three of the girls from Adoro also surprised me by being there outside the Castle when I came out.

“HRH The Princess Royal was just lovely and so engaging. After she presented me with my MBE we chatted about the excellent standard of music in Northern Ireland and also about our mutual friend Lady Mary Peters.

"I had previously met Her Royal Highness at a Mary Peters Trust event in 2022 which I the pleasure of being musical director for. After we concluded our conversation Her Royal Highness thanked me for my contribution to Music in Northern Ireland and wished me well for the future.”

Delighted, Adoro members added: “We couldn't be prouder of our MD Ashley Fulton who received his MBE at Windsor Castle on Tuesday for his services to music in Northern Ireland! There is no one more deserving and we are so lucky to be led by someone so inspiring.”