Our annual Patrons’ Evensong took place at Southwark Cathedral earlier this week. The Trust’s Royal Patron, HRH The Duchess of Gloucester, Trustees, supporters, guests and our friends at Southwark Cathedral came together for a celebration of choral music at its very best. Guests were treated to a special service of Choral Evensong sung by the cathedral choir, featuring Nico Muhly’s Southwark Service, Preces and Responses by Philip Moore, and Parry’s Blest pair of sirens as the anthem. HRH The Duchess of Gloucester read the first lesson, from the first book of Chronicles.
The congregation was treated to a skilful rendition of Demessieux’s Te Deum as organ voluntary before hearing a talk on the transformative impact of cathedral music during which David Hill MBE – conductor and trustee – and Revd Canon Kathryn Fleming reflected on how music has shaped their lives. Following this insightful discussion, supporters made their way to the retro-choir for a drinks reception. Our new CEO, Jonathan Mayes, gave a short speech thanking Patrons for their continued support and applauded the cathedral and choir on its thriving musical offering.
We also paid tribute to the late Ian Keatley, Southwark’s former Director of Music, who passed away suddenly whilst on holiday this summer, at the age of just 42. Ian has left an indelible mark on the music department at the cathedral, and had worked with the Trust to plan the music for the evening. He is much missed.
We would like to thank all those whose support is enabling cathedral music to thrive across the UK and beyond.
