Singing for the Prince

The concert featured 90 musicians from the Durham University Orchestral Society and a choir of 150 singers comprised of the Durham University Chamber Choir, Durham University Choral Society, Durham County Youth Choir and choristers of Durham Cathedral. Entitled “Voice and Verse: Celebrating the life and works of Parry”, the programme comprised some of Parry’s major works as well as a selection of songs from the Songs of the Fleet by Sir Charles Villiers Stanford.
 Performing at Durham Cathedral in the presence of Prince Charles.
The concert began with I was glad, Parry’s setting of a traditional coronation anthem that he composed for the coronation of King Edward VII. This magnificent piece was followed by two songs from the Songs of the Fleet written by Parry’s great contemporary Charles Villiers Stanford; I was particularly excited about this piece as the solo was performed by Sir Thomas Allen, one of Britain’s leading baritones and a world-renowned opera singer. Then we performed Parry’s Blest Pair of Sirens which was composed in honour of the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. We concluded with Jerusalem, a piece which has become an unofficial second national anthem, and everyone including Prince Charles joined in singing. It was very special to perform the music of Parry and Stanford along with such a huge orchestra and choir; after the concert, Prince Charles also remarked that it was a unique experience for him to hear this music performed by such large performing forces. I am extremely grateful to have had the chance to be part of this exceptional event as I am aware that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I feel honoured to have sung along with the University’s finest performers.
 Prince Charles with the Royal Party leaving the Cathedral.