We embarked on day three of our tour, leaving St. Andrews early in the morning to face the dreaded border crossing into the States --- which actually went very smoothly. That behind us, we began a long day of driving, getting lost, unexpected emergency bathroom breaks and all those kinds of things one should expect on a choir tour. A little late and out of breath we arrived just in time to be awed by the stunning grounds of St. Paul's School, Concord, New Hampshire.
The school was holding a special Spring Term Evensong and Formal Meal for which the King's Chapel Choir were featured guests. We had a brief practice with the St. Paul's School Choir and then sang Evensong together to over six hundred staff and students who had gathered in their beautiful Cathedral for the service. St. Paul's is one of the oldest private schools in the US and we were very honored to join them for this special service.
Afterwards, we were hosted by the Chapel's Dean and Rector and some of the students of the St. Paul's choir for a private meal, during which the choristers from both choirs became well acquainted. Many of the St. Paul's choristers opted to join the King's Choir for their first experience of the ancient office of Compline, which we sung in their darkened Cathedral by candlelight. The St. Paul's students seemed to enjoyed spending time with us, and even hung around after Compline to get some "groupie shots". We were appreciated our time at St. Paul's, especially our time with the students of the choir and are thankful for their interest in singing together!
I miss you all and wish I was with you!
ReplyDeleteLooks like you are having a wonderful time.