Catherine's Yearly Christmas Carol Concert Honours Community Volunteers

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is presiding over her customary festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with a congregation comprising dignitaries, stars, and everyday helpers who have helped their communities.

The large audience will enjoy a blend of traditional hymns, orchestral pieces, and literary excerpts from performers including award-winning actors.

A Theme of Kindness and Compassion

The central message of the service, held in the candle-lit Abbey on Friday afternoon, is kindness and showing love to others.

Attending the event are Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose child passed away from a brain cancer, and who set up a charity, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to support families who have a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.

"The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, and without any expectation or recognition, make an profound impact to the circumstances of individuals," Her Royal Highness stated in a letter ahead of the carol service.

A Steady Comeback

The royal has been undertaking her own measured re-emergence to public life after her cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy, in November making her major oration since 2023, in which she talked about recognising the "quiet, often invisible work of caring".

Musical Talent and Access

Guests arriving at the Abbey will be entertained by talented youth performers supported by the Future Talent charity, established in part by the late Duchess of Kent to broaden opportunities for music lessons.

Trumpeter Carys Wood, 18, who plays the trumpet and is from Pembrokeshire, has been supported by the organisation, with grants helping towards musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "amazing" to be performing at the evening's event.

"Pursuing music is often costly," Carys said. 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 Sisterly Duo

Her younger sibling Eliza, aged 11, who is a euphonium player, will also be at the Abbey. "I never imagined I would perform in front of so many important people," she said.

Within the audience will be people from various age groups.

That will encompass young Saphia Turner, nine, recipient of a young hero award, who sells artwork and carries out sponsored challenges to generate funds for community pantries.

Seasonal Ambiance and Entertainment

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 Katie Melua, choristers from Westminster Abbey and a nautical singing ensemble, the group Fisherman's Friends, who said the chance to take part was "the icing on the cake for us."

The Together at Christmas carol concert will be broadcast on a major network on Christmas Eve.