Last Monday, the Joint Schools’ Chamber Choir had the extraordinary honour of performing Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral in central London. This marked the choir’s third invitation to sing under the iconic dome – a privilege few schools receive. The occasion held even greater significance as the choir sang for the Remembrance Day service, making it a deeply meaningful and solemn event.
Performing in such an imposing and historic venue can be daunting, but the choir rose to the occasion with confidence and musical excellence. Their performance, from the opening responses to the soaring lines of Herbert Howells’ Collegium Regale, displayed remarkable poise and sensitivity throughout. One of the standout moments of the service was Edgar Bainton’s And I Saw a New Heaven, which resonated beautifully under the cathedral’s dome and was widely regarded as the highlight of the evening.
Particular credit must be given to Oscar Ford and Ben Pilkington, who performed the solo at the start of the Nunc Dimittis with great sensitivity and professionalism. Their ability to deliver such a demanding piece with skill and confidence reflects their exceptional levels of musicianship.
The service was also an opportunity to bring together the wider community connected to the choir. Several former members returned to St Paul’s to sit among the congregation and reflect on their own experiences of performing in the group. Their presence added a special dimension to the event, highlighting the lasting bond shared by those who have been part of the choir.
The evening was not only a celebration of the choir’s musical achievements but also a reminder of the importance of such occasions in bringing people together through shared traditions and remembrance. Performing at St Paul’s remains a rare privilege, and this latest appearance will surely be remembered as a standout moment in the choir’s history.