Join Sir Karl Jenkins, Nadine Benjamin and Toby Spence for a festive charity concert at St Paul’s

7 December 2018, 14:12 | Updated: 24 April 2019, 15:07

Joanna Lumley and Classic FM’s very own John Suchet will join a host of star musicians for an evening of festive music in aid of British Red Cross on Thursday 20 December

On Thursday 20 December, St Paul’s Cathedral will host an evening of the most beautiful festive music, and it’s all in aid of the British Red Cross.

Carols and Christmas music will be performed by soprano Nadine Benjamin, tenor Toby Spence and The Kingdom Choir – who famously performed at the wedding of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex earlier this year.

The evening will also include readings from familiar faces, including actress Joanna Lumley and Classic FM presenter John Suchet.

And what’s more, composer Sir Karl Jenkins has written a brand new anthem for the occasion. ‘Only Glad Tidings’, which will receive its world premiere at the concert, was written with Sir Karl’s wife, the poet Carol Barratt.

Sir Karl said: “I often speak to people who are experiencing crisis, such as the loss of a family member, who reach out to me because they find comfort in the things that I write. I think music is most powerful in that sense, it can help to bring solace to people during the most difficult of times.

“It’s a pleasure for me to write this piece of music as a gift in honour of the Red Cross, an organisation that helps to make the world better for people.”

Paul Amadi, chief supporter officer at the british Red Cross said:

“This inspiring concert set in one of the UK’s most spectacular venues will be a unique way to get into the festive spirit. “The festive season can be an especially difficult time for people. This concert will help to harness the incredible power of people’s kindness and share it with those who need it most.”

The event will raise funds to help the British Red Cross’ vital services for people facing loneliness and other crises in the UK and around the world.

The concert takes place on Thursday 20 December 2018 from 6.45-8.15pm. Book your ticket here. And you’ll be able to hear the concert broadcast on Classic FM on Saturday 22 December at 3pm.