Day 9: Wrapping up in Windsor

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Posing on the west steps of St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, after a splendid final service.

Day 9: A former boy chorister himself, Chris Thackray has a keen sense of a tour's lasting effect on a choir's "esprit de corps." He walks us through the final day, concluding with Evensong at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

Our final day kicked off with a “Full English” in the boisterous cafeteria of the Royal National in Bloomsbury. The large hotel was ground zero for umpteen school groups visiting London. At breakfast, the Choristers were rubbing shoulders with kids from Italy, France, Germany and everywhere between and beyond.

Well-fed (seconds, anyone?) and still abuzz from singing at Westminster Abbey (the Vicar invited us back!), we mounted up and set off for the Tower of London. The marvels of the crown jewels, uniformed Beefeaters and the infamous ravens did not fail to impress - nor did the enormous crowds of visitors! A few folks sought respite and made way across the Thames to the quieter climbs of the South Bank, the foodie wonders of Borough Market and a peaceful walk along the quayside to Southwark Cathedral.

Three Young Choristers at the Tower of London; Gordon and Erin enjoying a side trip to Borough Market.

We were delighted to have the whole of that magnificent building entirely to ourselves while the choir rehearsed for Evensong. It was a wonderful opportunity for a deep exploration of a place steeped in royal and national history - the tomb of Elizabeth ll and Prince Philip drew many a reverent gaze, as did the many monuments to Windsor, Hanoverian, Stuart and Tudor royalty and interestingly, the tomb Louis Napoleon son of Napoleon lll. The chapel boasts some of England’s most lustrous stained glass, a bright, sun-filled interior and a beautiful pipe organ, (played masterfully by Mark McDonald).

The choir led Choral Evensong in the intimate setting of the Quire, festooned with regalia, memorials to the Order of the Garter and the colourful royal standards of past monarchs. The Choir offered a splendid and inspiring service of music (garnering another invitation to return).

At conclusion of the service, the choir gathered up their robes, and with families and friends shared a happy and poignant moment of reflection, tearful at times, in joyful gratitude for everything we had experienced together; for Donald and Mark’s musical leadership, for the incredible efforts of Chorister parents and chaperones, the resilience of the Choir (especially the young Choristers, who kept little Anna Hunt entertained) for the unwavering support of our Cathedral family in Victoria. Mission accomplished.

O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things."

1: The "First Family" Donald Hunt (Director of Music), Alice Hunt (Cathedral Choir member), and their 1-month old; 2: Cathedral Choir members Monique and Isolde; 3: A celebratory final banquet

When this message goes out, the travellers will be en route back to Victoria (or as is the case for many), on to further holidays. Check back soon for a final wrap up from Director of Music, Donald Hunt. Know someone that would like these emails? Forward them this link!

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