More than 500 people packed into the Cathedral for an evening of festive song and worship with the top all-girls independent school. The widely used ‘Nine Lessons and Carols’ format, upon which the service was based, was devised by the school’s founder Bishop, Edward White Benson, in Truro in 1880. He went on to become Archbishop of Canterbury.
The service began in darkness with the school’s Chamber Choir holding candles as they walked through the Nave singing ‘Once in Royal David’s City’.
The school’s Prep, Senior and Chamber Choirs alongside the Flute Ensemble and a number of soloists also took part in the prestigious service which included readings from girls of all ages.
The final carol of the evening ‘O come all ye faithful’ was given an unexpected twist with the opening verse sung in Latin by Year 11 Madalena Larkin.
Headmistress Mrs Sarah Matthews said: “It was wonderful to see so many people here for such a perfect evening bringing our community together at this important time of year. It’s so special that the much-loved Nine Lessons and Carols service has its home in Truro Cathedral and the girls really rose to the occasion with their angelic voices this evening. With the Pre-Prep Nativity this afternoon and Carols in the Cathedral tonight, my Christmas has certainly begun!”
The service rounded off a fantastic year at school which saw it ranked as top in England in the small independent school A Level league tables.
