HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visited Wells Cathedral on the 25th September in her capacity as Patron of Wells Cathedral Choristers Trust.

A fundraising concert was performed by the incredible Drakensberg Boys Choir alongside Wells Cathedral Schools choir and musicians, and Wells Cathedral choristers.

The performance was a spectacular whirlwind of choral music featuring an eclectic repertoire, blending classical and Afro-Pop music, Coldplay and even a little bit of choreography and audience participation. The audience were dazzled by the talent and the infectious energy reverberating through the cathedral and the night was a roaring success.

This was a wonderful opportunity for both world-renowned music schools to come together to showcase their musical talents, while raising funds for future talented individuals back in South Africa. A triumph of an evening for all involved and the start of a wonderful new friendship between Wells Cathedral School and Drakensberg Boys Choir School.

"It was a privilege for our musicians at School and Cathedral to join forces with the Drakensberg Boys Choir. There was a fabulous community spirit for the whole evening. Friends were made quickly and easily. It truly was an evening which proved how much music can unite people, cultures and countries." Alex Laing, Director of Music, Wells Cathedral School

The Drakensberg Boys Choir School (DBCS) prepares boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics, sports, and social enrichment. Known affectionately as "Drakie boys," students are encouraged to harness their musical talents to bring hope and positive change in South Africa and globally. With a 57-year history, DBCS is the only established choir school in South Africa, earning international respect and producing young men of exemplary character.

For many of their talented boys, attending Drakensberg is a long-held dream come true. Unfortunately, some boy's world-class talent cannot be realised due to a lack of funding. As a result, the Drakies bursary fund is critical in providing deserving boys with the opportunity to perform on the world choir stage, an honour they would not have had without generous donations to their bursary fund. Proceeds from the UK tour will go to the bursary fund.

The Wells Cathedral School and the Wells Cathedral Choristers – The Drakensberg Boys Choir were joined for this special performance by the Choristers of Wells Cathedral Choir and the musicians and singers of Wells Cathedral School. The Wells Cathedral Choristers are the treble voices of the world-renowned Wells Cathedral Choir; lauded by Gramophone magazine as the world's leading choir with children.

They continue a tradition that dates back to the 10th century AD. The School's own choirs have an international reputation and maintain a busy schedule of concerts, recordings and broadcasts. They have toured extensively to Europe and the Far East and have been prize winners in major international competitions including 'Let the Peoples Sing', 'Musica Eterna Roma', 'BBC Choir of the Year', and most recently at the "International Choral Festival of Preveza'

Photo credit: Anna Barclay