Sharing a lifetime with the RAH

The RAH has been valued and invaluable part of my life since moving to London in 1967. Where to start?

The Proms as a Promenader - one learned to take a cushion but the experience was such an amazing introduction to the best of an eclectic selection of music. Dinner in the old Elgar Room was an elegant experience. Over the years there have been concerts of varying kinds to listen to and then, something entirely new, the opportunity to SING at the RAH with Wimbledon Choral Society. That was magical - the Mahler 8 in 2011, and Faure Requiem in 2014 amongst others. The surreal experience of recording Christmas Carols in the middle of August was fun as was seeing the "backstage" sections of the RAH. At the Proms in 2018 I heard the music of Lili Boulanger for the first time. It had an enormous impact on me and I hope that - sooner rather than later - our Choral Society will be able to perform it. Probably the memory which will remain with me the longest however is the unforgettable experience, and honour, of singing for the Remembrance Day services. It was absolutely impossible not to be moved to tears by the presence of the Chelsea Pensioners (who told wonderful jokes) and the experiences and bravery of all those represented - I treasure and miss that annual event. The RAH is my favourite music venue in London and, hopefully, it will be possible to visit it again soon. Here is to the next 150 years.