The Maynard School performs for Their Royal Highnesses The Earl & Countess of Wessex

20 Aug 2014

On Tuesday 10 June The Maynard School, Exeter, was invited by the Earl and Countess of Devon to perform at a reception at Powderham Castle in support of the Devon Historic Churches Trust, in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses The Earl and Countess of Wessex.

The Devon Historic Churches Trust was founded in 1973, and is dedicated to funding repairs and carrying out essential maintenance work on places of worship in Exeter and throughout Devon. In support of the trust, the historic Powderham Castle, home to the Earl and Countess of Devon, hosted the royal reception where the newly restored Organ played by Paul Morgan entertained the esteemed guests.

The Maynard School Chamber choir performed acoustic renditions of traditional songs such as Schubert’s ‘The Lord is My Shepard’ and ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’ in the Music Room of the castle. Upon finishing their performances, the choir and staff members were personally thanked and congratulated by Their Royal Highnesses The Earl & Countess of Wessex. In honour of the event and its guests, students Maddie Whitehall and Naomi Gillies were invited to present bouquets of flowers to the Countess of Wessex and Countess of Devon.

Ms Bee Hughes, Headmistress at The Maynard School, said ‘The Maynard is honoured to have been invited to perform at this prestigious event.’

Judith Kantze, Devon Historic Churches Trust commented, ‘Everyone involved in this Royal Reception was delighted by the significant contribution that the Maynard choir made to the success of this memorable occasion.  I have received many letters and emails from delighted guests and I know that both Their Royal Highnesses were captivated by the talent and charm of The Maynard girls’ performance.’

 

Photo: L-R: His Royal Highness Prince Edward (Earl of Wessex), Maddie Whitehall (Student, The Maynard School), Her Royal Highness (Sophie, Countess of Wessex).