The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, founded by King Olav V in 1985, is conferred on Andrew Litton as a reward for his outstanding service in the interest of Norway, and the promotion of Norwegian music abroad in general and the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra in particular. The insignia of the Order is the Cross of St. Olav. The Order will be conferred on Andrew Litton in Grieghallen Thursday 5 May at 19.30 (before the performance of Mahler Symphony No. 2).