Chamber Choir Ignites the ‘Lights of Love’ Service
Last Friday evening, the RGS Worcester Chamber Choir once again had the privilege of singing at Worcester Cathedral for the St Richard’s Hospice ‘Lights of Love’ Service. This annual Service of reflection and thanksgiving for those who have stayed at the hospice over the past year is always a special occasion for all who attend.
Venerable Robert Jones, Archdeacon of Worcester who retires this week, gave several readings and a short talk, and the RGS Chamber Choir performed two pieces: ‘Sure on this Shining Night’ by Samuel Barber and ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams, with a beautiful solo from Kieran Lilley in Year Eleven. The RGS Upper Voices Vocal Ensembles also sang Taylor Swift’s ‘Last Kiss’ at the end of the service, all were supported by Head of Music, Mr Jonathan Soman and Teacher of Music, Miss Clare Spencer. All of the pieces sung helped those at the service to remember loved ones, as did the lighting of around 800 candles as the Cathedral lights were dimmed.
Upper Sixth student, Helena Stockford Parsons, who joined Chamber Choir in the Summer and sang at the Lights of Love Service for the first time this year said: “I found the Service very moving and was proud to be involved in a large-scale Service for the general public. I loved singing the ‘Barber’ as the acoustics and architecture of the Cathedral really enhanced the song’s beauty and delicacy”.
St Richard’s Hospice cares for people registered with a South Worcestershire GP with a serious progressive illness who have complex needs which cannot be met by other services, including cancer and neurological, respiratory, cardiac and renal conditions. The annual ‘Lights of Love’ campaign sees hundreds of twinkling lights lit in memory and celebration of loved ones, as well as recording their names on banners around the Christmas tree at St Andrew’s Spire, Worcester.
Headmaster, Mr John Pitt said: “I am so pleased that the Chamber Choir performed again in the ‘Lights of Love’ service this year. I could hear members of the audience say just how beautiful the singing was and how impressed they were by the Chamber Choir’s performance. It is a great privilege to support the staff of St Richard’s Hospice and, in our own small way, celebrate their crucial work and the care they provide.”