The Readings

The four readings came from the Gospel of St Matthew, Chapter 27.

Our Charity, Future Talent

Founder: The Duchess of Kent GCVO
Chairman: Nicholas Robinson

Future Talent grew out of one person s direct experience. After teaching music in one Primary school for 12 years, The Duchess of Kent quickly became aware that there were children of considerable or in some cases exceptional talent who were not being recognised or acknowledged. This made her think that if such children were found in one area in this case East Hull then how many might there be all over the country?

Future Talent will be an initial guiding force for talented young people of Primary school age. Our concept is simple if children see music as a goal they wish to pursue then we will not only actively encourage them, but will also monitor, fund and advise each individual as they progress.

Music forms an essential element in our society. It is the right of every child to have access to that art. The present spotlight on the improvement of the arts in general in schools is both significant and stimulating. Future Talent is pledged to support these initiatives whilst focusing on those who emerge with an ability and aptitude for music.

Our Patron, The Duchess of Kent

Katharine Kent (née Worsley) was born on 22 February 1933, the youngest child and only daughter of the late Sir William Worsley. Katharine was educated at Queen Margaret's School near York and at Runton Hill School in Norfolk. From an early age she was taught to play piano, organ and violin and went on to study music at the University of Oxford.

Katharine Worsley married His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Kent in 1961 and became The Duchess of Kent. The Duchess leads an active public life as a practising musician focusing on helping young musicians. She founded the charity Future Talent which aims to give every child and equal opportunity to excel in music. The Duchess is the President of Manchester's Royal Northern College of Music and Trustee of the National Foundation for Youth Music (London). In a letter from Wren House dated 1st March 2007, The Duchess congratulated the choir on 'the large sums of money' that it has raised for charities and sent the choir a message of her 'sincere warm wishes'.

Grateful Thanks To

Rev Duncan Eddie and the parishioners of Holburn West for supporting this concert.

Mrs Isobel Wilson, our Refreshments Manager and a linchpin of all musical performances.

Our tireless Church Secretary, Mrs Wendy Linn.

The Duchess of Kent, for accepting the position of Patron of Holburn West Choir.

Mr Norman Bain, for once again giving up his precious free time to record the concert.

All the choristers who have performed so magnificently for us this evening and for the huge level of commitment and talent they contribute to Worship throughout the year.

DS, 3/06