The Choir Schools’ Association is very sad to learn of the death of Katharine, HRH The Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness was the Association’s royal patron for many years, showing a keen interest in the education and welfare of choristers as part of her own passion for and commitment to music and education. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.
Her Royal Highness became CSA Patron in 1990 and her first public appearance for the Association was for a special BBC Songs of Praise when more than 800 choristers from 11 Northern choir schools travelled to Lichfield Cathedral. The programme attracted more than 8 million viewers.
A few years later she and former CSA member Nick Robinson (then Head of King’s College School, Cambridge) joined forces to launch the hugely successful charity Future Talent to help talented young musicians and singers in need of funds to pursue their passion for music. The Choir Schools’ Association is very fortunate to have enjoyed Her Royal Highness’ support over so many years.
The top photo features HRH The Duchess of Kent with Roger Overend (Incoming Chair of the CSA) and Elizabeth Cairncross (Outgoing Chair of the CSA) at the 2011 CSA conference in York.
The Duchess of Kent’s visit to King’s Ely in 2016 to meet the Girl Choristers.
