Her Royal Highness's Traditional Festive Service of Carols Honours Community Volunteers
The Princess of Wales is hosting her customary festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with a congregation comprising dignitaries, stars, and everyday helpers who have supported their local areas.
The large audience will enjoy a blend of festive songs, musical performances, and spoken word pieces from performers including award-winning actors.
Centred Around Compassion and Love
The theme of the concert, held in the atmospheric historic church on the afternoon, is generosity and expressing affection towards one's neighbour.
Among the guests will be Jonathan and Anna Cordiner, whose child passed away from a brain tumour, and who founded an organisation, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to help households where there is a child with a terminal illness.
"The time, care and compassion you give, often without fanfare or recognition, and without any expectation or recognition, make an extraordinary difference to the well-being of people," Her Royal Highness stated in a letter ahead of the concert.
A Steady Comeback
The Princess of Wales is continuing her own measured re-emergence to public life after her cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy, last month delivering her initial major address in two years, in which she discussed recognising the "discreet, frequently unseen labour of caregivers".
Music and Opportunity
Those coming to the Abbey can listen to budding artists supported by the Future Talent organisation, established in part by the former royal to widen access to musical tuition.
An 18-year-old named Carys Wood, who plays the trumpet and is from Wales, has been helped by the charity, with funding assisting with musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "amazing" to be performing at tonight's service.
"Pursuing music is often costly," the musician remarked. She is now a student at the Royal Academy of Music, and added that "each individual ought to be given the possibility" to hone their artistic talents.
A Family Affair
Eliza, Carys's sister who is 11, who plays the euphonium, will be present at the Abbey. "It's unbelievable that I get to perform here in front of so many important people," she said.
Among the guests will be individuals spanning multiple eras.
That will feature Saphia Turner, aged nine, recipient of a prize for youthful altruism, who sells artwork and carries out sponsored challenges to generate funds for community pantries.
Festive Decor and Performances
The Abbey has been decorated with specially made wreaths, with well-known chef Mary Berry and flower expert Simon Lycett assisting in their creation.
Among the musical performers will be recording artist Katie Melua, choristers from Westminster Abbey and a Cornish sea shanty group, the group Fisherman's Friends, who said the invitation to sing was "the perfect culmination."
The Together at Christmas carol concert will be broadcast on television on December 24th.