Celebrating 100 years since the birth of our founder,

Sir Alexander Gibson

Throughout 2026 we have been honouring our founder, Sir Alexander Gibson, in the year that marks a century since his birth.

As part of these celebrations, we will soon be producing a limited-edition centenary commemorative coin to honour his extraordinary life, vision and legacy.

We’re thrilled to offer you the opportunity to receive one of our limited-edition commemorative coins when you make a donation of at least £40. In return, you’ll enjoy this lasting keepsake honouring the man whose imagination, leadership and love of opera gave Scotland its national opera company.

By being part of this appeal, you will support our new production of Madama Butterfly next summer. This is a fitting tribute to Sir Alexander as it is the very same opera that raised the curtain on his 25-year tenure as Scottish Opera’s Music Director more than sixty years ago.

*A visual representation of the Sir Alexander Gibson Commemorative Coin.*

Sir Alexander Gibson conducting, © Royal Scottish National Orchestra

Sir Alexander’s vision for Scottish Opera was ‘to lay the treasures of opera at the feet of the people of Scotland.'

Make a donation and celebrate Sir Alexander’s legacy

For a minimum donation of £40, you will receive one commemorative coin, although you are more than welcome to donate more if you wish.

We also happily accept donations by post and by telephone. Please see our FAQs for more information.

We will be in touch with you via email to confirm when your coin is ready for shipping.

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Born in Motherwell in 1926 - later affectionately known as ’the maestro fae Motherwell’ - Sir Alexander transformed Scotland's cultural landscape when he founded Scottish Opera in 1962, having already become the first Scot to lead the Scottish National Orchestra. His ambition was bold and deeply generous: during his time with Scottish Opera he conducted four world premieres, as well as the first ever full, uncut performance of Berlioz's epic Les Troyens in a single night - a fitting symbol of his determination to bring world-class music and captivating storytelling to audiences throughout Scotland.

More than 60 years later, his legacy continues every time our curtain rises. From the unforgettable performances, to creating opportunities for artists and musicians, Scottish Opera remains rooted in the pioneering spirit of our founder.

By making a gift today, you will help continue Sir Alexander’s remarkable legacy, bringing the power and beauty of opera to people across Scotland.

Interested in finding out more about Sir Alexander Gibson, his life and achievements? Read our online article published earlier this year.

Black and white portrait of Alexander Gibson, founder of Scottish Opera

Black and white portrait of Sir Alexander Gibson, founder of Scottish Opera

Black and white photo of founder of Scottish Opera, Alexander Gibson, sat at a piano with a man holding sheet music beside him

Sir Alexander Gibson sat at the piano

Black and white photo of founder of Scottish Opera, Alexander Gibson, with Peter Ebert

Peter Ebert And Sir Alexander Gibson

Sir Alexander Gibson And The Scottish National Orchestra at a recording session (perhaps in Govan Town Hall) © Eric Thorburn

Sir Alexander Gibson, John Currie & Peter Hemmings

FAQs

Get in touch

For further information, please contact Scottish Opera's Fundraising Department on 0141 242 0598 or via the contact form.

Alternatively, you can also email supportus@scottishopera.org.uk.

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