A group of 20 from the Bakers’ Co recently gathered at Westminster Abbey at twilight. The occasion was to enjoy a Livery Tour conducted by the Purcell Club, made up of former choristers of the Abbey, which dates back over 1,000 years. We met with our Master Wm. Marle and his wife Audrey, to enjoy sublime singing and amazing architecture that awaited us and three other groups, as we toured the Abbey and its historical delights. For some it began with supper, down in the ancient Cellarium where the monks used to keep their supplies fresh and cool before consumption. Then we all assembled, passing the tomb of the unknown soldier, (currently under scaffolding), as we proceeded up the aisle and through to the ancient Quire. The format was to arrive at a particular place, listen to the commentary given by our tour guide, Lord William Wallace, learn about the Abbey structures, tombs, floor or ceiling up close, and then to listen to the former Abbey choristers. Events of old, as well as the recent Coronation, were explained before the choristers sang to music by composers Thomas Tallis, Orlando Gibbons, Henry Purcell (former organist at the Abbey) and others. It was a delightful evening and our thanks go to organiser, the Clerk.
Liveryman Sylvia Macdonald
Pic 1 Master William and his wife, Audrey
Pic 2 The Choristers in front of Isaac Newton
Pic 3 The 13c Roman Cosmati pavement
Pic 4 Choristers performing in front of the Quire
