Catherine's Yearly Christmas Musical Celebration Pays Tribute to Charity Helpers

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is presiding over her yearly festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with guests including royals, celebrities and local heroes who have supported their local areas.

The large audience will listen to a selection of carols, music and readings from performers including award-winning actors.

Centred Around Kindness and Compassion

The theme of the service, held in the atmospheric historic church on the afternoon, is kindness and showing love to others.

Attending the event are Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose child passed away from a tumour, and who established a foundation, a support fund, to aid parents with a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.

"The dedication, empathy, and kindness you show, often without fanfare or recognition, and without any expectation or recognition, make an profound impact to the lives of others," the Princess expressed in a note prior to the concert.

A Gradual Return

The Princess of Wales is continuing her own steady comeback to public life subsequent to her illness and medical care, last month delivering her initial major address in two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "quiet, often invisible work of caring".

Musical Talent and Access

Attendees entering the Abbey will enjoy performances from young musicians supported by the charitable trust Future Talent, set up with the help of the late Duchess of Kent to broaden opportunities for musical tuition.

Trumpeter Carys Wood, 18, who performs on the trumpet and is from southwest Wales, has been assisted by the organisation, with awards contributing to musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "awesome" to be playing at the concert.

"Pursuing music is often costly," the musician remarked. She is now studying at the Royal Academy of Music, and added that "everyone should have the opportunity" to develop their musical skills.

A Sisterly Duo

Carys's 11-year-old sister, Eliza, who plays the euphonium, will be present at the Abbey. "I never imagined I would perform in front of so many important people," she said.

Among the guests will be individuals spanning multiple eras.

That will include nine-year-old Saphia Turner, winner of a youth community award, who creates and sells art and completes fundraising tasks to generate funds for community pantries.

Seasonal Ambiance and Entertainment

The Abbey has been decorated with specially made wreaths, with TV cook Mary Berry and florist Simon Lycett helping to make them.

Taking to the stage will be singer Katie Melua, the Abbey's own choir and a Cornish sea shanty group, Fisherman's Friends, who said the opportunity to perform was "a dream come true."

The Together at Christmas carol concert will be televised and shown on television on December 24th.