Last week’s celebration of the Tenth Anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter was a truly memorable event which took place at South Africa House in Trafalgar Square, London on 16th March 2023.

A group of incredibly talented young musicians from the Royal Academy of Music Junior Department, recommended by The Commonwealth Resounds, performed for a distinguished audience to celebrate the achievements and vision of the Commonwealth . The event was also a true testament to the importance of music and the arts in bringing people together from all over the world.

Our group of musicians not only performed at this special tenth anniversary event, but they also had the honour of performing at the Commonwealth Service in Westminster Abbey earlier in the week. Their performances were truly captivating, blending traditional and contemporary styles from all over the world to create a sound that was both unique and engaging. They were a true representation of the diversity of musical talent across the Commonwealth and a reminder of the incredible impact that music can have in bringing people together.

In addition to The Commonwealth Resounds’ performance, the event at South Africa House also featured a photography exhibition entitled ‘A Lens on the Climate Crisis in Africa.’ This exhibition was a moving and powerful tribute to the devastating impact of climate change on African communities. The photographs were stunning and provided a visual representation of the urgent need to address this global crisis.

The Commonwealth Foundation Charter’s Tenth Anniversary was a true celebration of the Commonwealth and the incredible talent that exists within it. The event was a reminder of the incredible impact that the Commonwealth can have in promoting unity and cooperation among its member nations around the world.

The world is gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime event – the Coronation Concert on 7th May 2023, broadcast live from Windsor Castle. This concert is being held to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and The Queen Consort. This is an incredible opportunity for anyone who loves to sing and be part of something bigger than themselves. And, you can be part of it too!

The Coronation Concert aims to unite communities in a virtual choir to represent and showcase all Nations of the Commonwealth. The BBC is searching for individuals, groups, couples, and choirs to join this historic Commonwealth Choir. The goal is to bring together singers from all over the world to create a powerful and moving performance.

If you are a singer or part of a choir, then this is an opportunity not to be missed. By joining the Commonwealth Choir, you will have the chance to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime event, broadcast live throughout the world. You will also get the opportunity to showcase your talents on an international stage, alongside other talented singers from around the world.

To be considered for this opportunity, all you have to do is click on the link above for details.

We are helping the BBC to look for singers and choirs of all ages and abilities, so whether you are a seasoned performer or just starting out, this is your chance to shine. You will be asked to submit a video of singing a chosen piece, and if successful, you will be part of the virtual choir that will perform at the Coronation Concert.

Recently, The Commonwealth Resounds was asked by The Royal Commonwealth Society to find a group of talented young instrumental musicians to perform at Westminster Abbey on Monday, 13th March, just before the Commonwealth Service. After careful consideration, we decided to partner with the Royal Academy of Music Junior Department, who consistently produce some of the most promising young musicians in the country.

We would like to extend a special thanks to John Hutchins, the Director of Music at RAM, and Susan Torke, the Director of the Wind Quintet, who worked tirelessly to prepare a beautiful programme of music. We also had the privilege of inviting Tiana Oberoi, a brilliant young Indian singer, to join the ensemble.

One of the highlights of the performance was Tiana singing “Ari We Ari,” a traditional folk song from India arranged by Tom Kirby, aged 18, who studies at The Purcell School for Young Musicians in Hertfordshire. The programme also featured other items arranged and composed by young Commonwealth composers, including Laila Arafah, Maddy Chassar-Hesketh, Edward Tait, Chloe Harrison, and Felix Ho.

The performance was a resounding success, with the audience left in awe of the level of talent and skill displayed by the performers.

Yuliia Chorna of the BBC Events Team said:

“I am writing to express my sincere gratitude on behalf of the BBC Events Team for the exceptional performance delivered by The Royal Academy of Music Junior Ensemble at the Commonwealth Observance Day service held at Westminster Abbey on the 13th of March. The level of talent and skill displayed by the performers was truly remarkable, and it was an absolute pleasure to witness such an impressive performance.”

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those involved in making this event a success, including the Royal Academy of Music Junior Department, Tiana Oberoi, and the young Commonwealth composers who contributed to the programme. We are excited to see what the future holds for these talented young musicians and look forward to supporting them in their musical journeys.