On 3rd April 2025, HRH King Charles III hosted a concert and reception at Windsor Castle to honour individuals and organisations dedicated to community music across the United Kingdom. Among the guests were John Gillam (Chairman), Mark Bromley (CEO) and Dr Robert Childs (Director of Artistic Planning) of The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.
The event celebrated the significant contributions of community music groups, highlighting their role in enriching local cultures and fostering musical talents.
The concert featured a diverse array of performances, showcasing the richness of community music in the UK. The Sing for Freedom Choir, composed of torture survivors, delivered a moving performance symbolising resilience and hope. Renowned saxophonist YolanDa Brown captivated the audience with three renditions on the theme of love. Additionally, students from the Royal College of Music demonstrated their exceptional talents, underscoring the importance of nurturing young musicians.
A notable highlight of the post-concert reception was a performance by the London Vegetable Orchestra, renowned for crafting instruments from fresh vegetables. In a light-hearted moment, King Charles attempted to play a carrot-shaped recorder, delivering a rendition of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”.
Reflecting on the occasion, Mark Bromley expressed his gratitude: “It was an honour to be recognised by His Majesty for our dedication to nurturing young musical talent. This acknowledgment inspires us to continue our mission with renewed passion”.
Photo credit: Ian Jones Photography
