This year’s London Carol Service was a tremendous occasion and a wonderful way to start off the Christmas season! Held in the heart of the city, it brought together pupils, staff, and families in a beautiful celebration of music, tradition, and community.
The service featured classic congregational carols, accompanied by a superb Brass Quintet and a talented Organist, as well as incredible performances from Downe House’s choirs. It was a showcase of musical excellence, with a range of choral works filling the venue with festive cheer.
Following the opening prayers, the service began with an enchanting rendition of the opening solo verse of Once in Royal David’s City, performed by Isadora from Upper Sixth (Year 13). Her fantastic performance set the tone for the evening, showcasing the exceptional talent nurtured at Downe House. This was a particularly poignant moment, as it marked the final carol service for our Upper Sixth pupils. Several other solos throughout the service were also sung brilliantly by Upper Sixth pupils, making the evening all the more special.
The choirs delivered a series of remarkable performances, each bringing something unique to the service:
- Polyphonix began with an unaccompanied piece, Adam lay ybounden by Boris Ord. Their precision and harmony captivated the audience from the start.
- Prima Voce followed with a moving rendition of In the Bleak Midwinter, arranged by Dan Forrest. This heartfelt performance beautifully captured the essence of the season.
- Polyphonix returned to perform John Rutter’s Shepherd’s Pipe Carol, featuring a stunning solo verse sung by three Upper Sixth Music Award Holders.
- In Harmony performed There is no Rose from Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, accompanied by a solo harp. The delicate interplay between voices and harp created a truly magical moment.
- Once Removed sang John Rutter’s Star Carol, delivering a performance filled with warmth and joy.
Prima Voce and Polyphonix performed two final pieces:
- Tavener’s The Lamb, a sublime and reflective piece that highlighted the choir’s extraordinary vocal control.
- Stopford’s A Christmas Blessing, which brought a sense of peace and unity to the congregation.
The service concluded with the congregation joining together to sing Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. This beloved carol, sung with enthusiasm and accompanied by the Brass Quintet and Organist, was the perfect end to a magnificent evening.
This year’s London Carol Service was a fitting start to the festive season, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our pupils and staff. It was a night filled with music, joy, and the true spirit of Christmas.
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