Tomorrow’s Warriors is proud to celebrate a landmark moment in the career of our Co-Founder and Artistic Director, Dr Gary Crosby OBE, who was made an Honorary Member of the Royal Academy of Music at a ceremony at London’s Freemasons’ Hall on Tuesday 8th July 2025.
This prestigious accolade, limited to just 300 outstanding musicians who did not attend the Academy, recognises Gary’s extraordinary contributions to jazz and music education in the UK. As a bassist, bandleader, mentor, and tireless advocate for young talent, Gary has shaped the landscape of British jazz for over five decades.
The Royal Academy of Music highlighted Gary’s leadership in nurturing generations of diverse musical talent through Tomorrow’s Warriors, as well as his own pioneering work as a founding member of Jazz Warriors and leader of Nu Civilisation Orchestra
Gary joins an illustrious list of 2025 honorees, including sopranos Lise Davidsen and Pretty Yende, composer Unsuk Chin, and producer Brian Eno who was presented with an Honorary Doctorate. The Academy’s Principal, Jonathan Freeman-Attwood CBE, noted that “The Academy’s fellows and honorary members remind us that the continuum of excellence and inspiration is what allows our wonderful art form to flourish — and in every part of society.”
This recognition is a testament not only to Gary’s personal achievements but also to the enduring impact of the Tomorrow’s Warriors mission: to champion access, diversity, and excellence in music.
Congratulations, Gary — we are so proud!
Photographs courtesy of Frances Marshall.