Chamber Choir’s Evensong at St George’s Chapel, Windsor

Forty members of QE’s Chamber Choir sang Evensong at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle – last resting place of monarchs and scene of countless royal weddings and funerals.

The Evensong at the famous 14th-century chapel was only the sixth such choral service sung by the choir, whose first-ever Evensong came just two-and-a-half years ago at St John the Baptist Church in Barnet.

Headmaster Neil Enright said: “Our Evensong at St George’s Chapel was very special indeed. It’s quite incredible how far the boys’ abilities have developed over the last three years.”

The day started with a picnic on The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park and time exploring the historic town of Windsor. The choristers were supported by around 50 staff, parents and members of the wider QE community.

Upon arrival at the castle, the choir received a warm welcome from the Virger, Vaughn Wright, and were taken on a short tour. This included seeing the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II.

There followed a rehearsal in the quire (the seated area for the choir), under the banners of the Knights of the Garter, with the choristers split across the aisle where Kings Henry VIII and Charles I are buried.

Director of Music Ruth Partington said: “As many noted, the choir did themselves proud in the service, delivering the high level of musicality and sensitivity that was appropriate for such a prestigious occasion.”

The music sung included Brewer in D as the canticles, Lead me, Lord by S.S. Wesley as the anthem, and Humphrey Clucas’s The Preces [prayers] and Responses.

Nikhil Mark and Joel Swedensky, two departing Year 13s who hold choral awards at Oxford and Cambridge universities respectively, sang solos.

The Chamber Choir was accompanied on the organ by Music teacher Jas Hutchinson-Bazely.

Miss Partington added: “We did our very first QE Evensong in November 2022 and have sung three at St John’s Barnet, one at Southwark Cathedral, one at King’s College Chapel, Cambridge, and now this one at Windsor.  It has been an exciting journey of discoveries both in how to manage all the repertoire – such as how to sing preces & responses, and how to sing a psalm – and in improving individual and collective vocal ability.

“We had a highly successful day, and that is huge testament to the hard work put in by the pupils since that very first service to reach the standard they sang at in Windsor.”

• The photos here within the chapel were taken during rehearsals: photography is not permitted during the service. Click on the thumbnails to view.