When Kate Middleton and Prince William got married in 2011, King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, made a thoughtful and personal gesture to enhance the romantic ambiance of their wedding day. Charles contributed an adorable element to William’s wedding, adding a touch of sentimentality to the highly anticipated royal occasion.
As the world eagerly watched the fairytale-like ceremony unfold after the couple’s decade-long courtship, every detail was meticulously planned, from Kate’s stunning custom Alexander McQueen bridal gown to the floral arrangements. Amidst the expertly orchestrated event, King Charles took it upon himself to select something special that would elevate the romantic atmosphere of the Westminster Abbey ceremony, making it even more memorable.
The Prince of Wales, Charles, made a significant contribution to the royal wedding of Prince William and Princess Kate by assisting in the selection of music that would be performed during the service. As a passionate patron of the arts, Charles had several pieces in mind to elevate the occasion, according to reports from the Daily Mail.
In an interview with Classic FM, Charles stated, “I love trying to organize some interesting, I hope, pieces of music for certain occasions, particularly for weddings if people want. I know my eldest son was quite understanding and was perfectly happy for me to suggest a few pieces for their wedding.”
The wedding ceremony commenced with organ music as guests arrived, featuring compositions by renowned composers such as Bach and Elgar. Subsequently, orchestral pieces were played, two of which held special significance as they were a tribute to Charles and Camilla’s own romance. The palace explained at the time, “Three of these pieces Farewell to Stromness, Touch Her Soft Lips and Part and Romance for String Orchestra Op. 11 were played at the Service of Prayer and Dedication for The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall in 2005. The Couple specifically chose these pieces for that reason.”
His Royal Highness Prince Charles’s profound appreciation for the musical arts is widely acknowledged. During his tenure as the Prince of Wales, he reinstated the esteemed position of Official Harpist in the year 2000, thereby paying homage to the instrument’s traditional significance within Welsh culture.
In a revelation to Classic FM, Prince Charles graciously attributed his deep-rooted affinity for classical music to the profound influence of his late grandmother, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. He fondly recounted, “My grandmother was accustomed to performing a considerable repertoire of musical pieces, thereby exposing me to the art form from an early age. However, I suspect my initial conscious awareness of classical music manifested during my attendance at the Covent Garden at the tender age of seven, accompanied by my grandmother, Queen Elizabeth.”