Royal Patrons
Their Royal Highnesses
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester
We are delighted that Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester have graciously agreed to be the Royal Patrons of the RVW150@Down Ampney 2022 celebrations.
Music for the Coronation
For the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Vaughan Williams' wrote the setting to the hymn "All people that on earth do dwell" (The Old 100th).
The Sanctus from RVW's 'Mass in G Minor' was sung during the Communion.
The motet for organ and chorus - "O Taste and See" - (Psalm 34) was also sung.
This British composer's work played a significant part in the Coronation Service in 1953; and also featured in the Coronation Service of King George VI.
​
In 1935, RVW accepted the rare honour of the "Order of Merit" for services to music, having previously eshewed titles. His friends and family were delighted.
​
Royal Weddings
At the wedding of Prince Harry to Miss Megan Markle in 2018, the congregation heard Vaughan Williams 'Fantasia on Greensleeves' as they waited for the service to begin.
His music also featured at the wedding of Prince William to Katherine Middleton.
RVW's 'Rhosymedre' was played at the marriage of The Prince of Wales to Lady Diana Spencer.
​
​
Memorial Service for
HRH Prince Philip
Westminster Abbey was the setting for the Memorial Service celebrating the life of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh on Tuesday 29th March 2022.
​
At this service the hymn 'Who would true valour see' was sung to the traditional folk tune 'Monks Gate' adapted for hymn singing by Ralph Vaughan Williams.
The hymn 'All creatures of our God and King' was also sung - again the tune having been arranged by RVW.
​
Before the service, the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Portsmouth (Royal Band) played the Prelude from the 49th Parallel by RVW, arranged by Michael McDermott.
​