ONE OF the major stars of the upcoming Whittington Music Festival is set to perform at the coronation of King Charles III.
Roderick Williams OBE will be performing at the festival, which was given a new life following vital fundraising, between May 17-23.
However, Festival trustees were delighted to hear the announcement that he will be one of three soloists to perform during the coronation service for King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on May 6.
Mr Williams, known as Roddy to the festival and his fans, will sing alongside bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel and soprano Pretty Yende with a specially assembled “coronation orchestra” conducted by Sir Anthony Pappano.
In addition to his performance as a soloist, Roderick is also one of 10 British composers who have been commissioned to write music for the service.
“It is hard to put into words how excited and honoured I am to have been chosen both to sing at His Majesty’s Coronation and also to contribute a brand new piece of music,” he said.
“To be a part of this historic occasion is humbling and awe-inspiring.
“His Majesty’s love of the arts and music in particular is of huge importance to all of us in this profession and we are grateful for the opportunity to showcase British music-making in this most magnificent setting.
“I look forward to playing my part in this great celebration.”
Mr Williams will be performing at two concerts across the showpiece weekend.
Organisers of the festival are now urging people to get their tickets to see him perform as they expect interest to increase.
A spokesman for the trustees added: “Just two weeks after the coronation, Roderick is coming to Shropshire to perform in two concerts at the Whittington Music Festival on Saturday, May 20 and 21.
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“We knew this year’s festival was going to be an extraordinary one, with a terrific programme of music planned.
“With the news of Roderick Williams’ royal engagement, we expect tickets will sell out very quickly.”
Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, February 22, online at https://www.whittingtonmusicfestival.org.uk/booking-information/ and from Rowanthorn and Whittington Post Office.
Anyone under the age of 26 is admitted free of charge to all the festival concerts but will need to book a ticket in advance.
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