In October, 13 former members of the Crypt Choir travelled to Monaco to perform at a special choral concert. Led by Will Bersey (Director of Music), the OKS Choir represented King’s on an international stage to mark the Centenary of St Paul's Anglican Church, Monte Carlo. The trip was generously sponsored by Simon Groom (LN 1964–68), who lives in Monaco and is a long-standing supporter of Music at King’s.

The concert, held on Saturday 18 October, followed just four hours of rehearsal. The choir gave an excellent performance of choral treasures across the seasons in the first half, followed by Fauré Requiem in the second half.

The following morning, the group sang for Eucharist, performing Jonathan Dove’s Missa Brevis. The newly appointed Suffragan Bishop of Europe was in attendance, and the choir closed the service with the hymn Let us light a candle, with words by the late Robert Willis (Dean of Canterbury 2001–22).

Robert had visited Monaco twice in recent years and attended the St Paul’s Church centenary reception almost exactly a year ago. He was much loved by the community there, and it was especially meaningful to make a musical connection with him through the voices of former Crypt Choir members.

A heartfelt thank you to Simon for supporting this special opportunity for our young OKS singers. It was wonderful to see former Crypt Choir members performing together once more and continuing the rich musical tradition of King’s beyond the Precincts.

The OKS choir included: Theo Amies, Iona Bastin, Annenora Benians, Catherine Bennett, James Bennett, Arthur Elliott, Matilda Eriksson, Joe Fuller, Charlie Lineker, George Mitchell, Grace Stephens-Spada, Romola Woodhouse.

Our organists were Toby Davies and the Cathedral Assistant Organist, Jamie Rogers.