On Thursday evening we hosted a truly magical evening of festive music, readings and carols at St Mary Abbots Church in Kensington, London.  With the church filled with twinkling candles and Christmas decorations, guests enjoyed drinks and canapes before finding their seats to enjoy a very special concert by the Chamber Choir and the newly-formed Alumnae Choir.  The event was raising money for Glass Door Charity – a London based homeless charity, offering shelter and support services, as well as The Calne Foundation Trust Music Bursary Fund - if you would like to make a donation, please click here. 

Our very talented Chamber Choir performed Benjamin Britten’s famous ‘A Ceremony of Carols’ led by Miss Marie-Clare Arthur, Director of Music and expertly accompanied by Mrs Jenny Broome, on the harp.   The congregation were spellbound by their incredible voices, which filled the beautiful building and created the most enchanting experience.  Readings were given by Dr Kirk, Iona (UVI) and Elowen (LVI) as well as Neil Parkinson, Co-Head of Case Work at Glass Door Charity. Jenny Broom performed a wonderful piece of music, ‘Schedryk’, an arrangement of ‘Carol of the Bells’.

The newly formed Alumnae, made up of a variety of years, came together to perform ‘The Holly & the Ivy’ and greatly enjoyed the opportunity to be part of a St Mary’s concert, bringing back happy memories of their time at Calne.  We hope to continue this tradition with opportunities to be involved with other important school events during the 150th celebrations next year and as a Christmas tradition in years to come.