Geordie and I hurried through the high glass doors of the Royal Albert Hall’s portico entrance facing Kensington Gardens. Barely pausing, we climbed swiftly up the red stairs towards the first floor of boxes, feeling harried and rushed because of delays on the railway. Warmly greeted, glasses of wine soon in hand, we sat down. I am always spellbound by the red and gold warmth of what feels like an amphitheatre inside this marvellous building.
It is a magnificent auditorium built 150 years ago, rich and wonderful, which has welcomed new and old composers, worldwide orchestras, inspiring young musicians as well as those at the top of their careers . Going there is a rather like a magical adventure into a different world. On this particular occasion it was the premiere of composer and conductor Patrick Hawes’ new work ‘the Great War Symphony’, which he wrote to commemorate the First World War. It was collaboration between Classic FM, Viking Cruises and our hosts were SSAFA (one of the charities we supported at our Heroes at Highclere event last month).
The programme for the first half of the evening was a collection of many favourites from Parry to Elgar, Gustav Holst to John Williams and even a piece from the film ‘Saving Private Ryan’. I enjoyed the fanfares, the drums, the band of the Household Cavalry, youth choirs and extraordinary heart-breaking photos and moving pictures from the First World War, loaned by the Imperial War Museum.
The second half was taken up entirely by the Great War Symphony. It began with the sound of Big Ben and the real optimism there was at the outbreak of the war that it would soon be all over. The music lead us through the pieces sung by a woman – a mother, the heartbreak of the battles of Gallipoli and on to those who were waiting and those who were witnessing the war on the front lines, nursing and comforting. From there the Elegy of the next part recognises how you know how much you love someone only when you lose them, before the last movement and the tenors call to stop the war, stop all the clocks …
For the Heroes weekend I had reached out to SSAFA because I appreciated their support of families affected by conflict today and to acknowledge that whilst we should not forget the past, it is practical support today that really matters. Within days of the outbreak of the First World War, SSAFA was called upon to assist the Government to help ensure that families didn’t suffer hardship when the men were called up. One of their volunteers, Ash, decided to look through the SSAFA World War I archive. From 1914 to 1918, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon was a Life Member and Honorary Vice President of the Hampshire Branch of SSAFA. The Honorary Vice President is not an position that is awarded lightly either then or now and I expect it was bestowed by the Branch for Lord Carnarvon’s conspicuous service and support to SSAFA within Hampshire.
5th Earl of Carnarvon
Lord Carnarvon would have held the appointment until his death. It makes great sense to me that he helped SSAFA as he continued to pay the wages to the families of the menfolk of Highclere who had been sent to war – their families needed something to live on. The Highclere Roll of Honour lists the men who died, but behind those names are the families who survived them, the men who were injured and the children who struggled to cope. There was very little government help in those days and SSAFA stood almost alone in offering assistance.
By chance and through friends, I had also reached out to TAPS, a similar but more recent US charity which looks at supporting veterans and they also joined us at Heroes.
Studying at school, one of my history text books was called ‘A Broken World’. Mark Twain apparently said “History may not repeat, but it often rhymes” and the world today often seems to be one of polarised harsh statements made without reflection or consideration. Our parents and grandparents must have hoped we would remember the values of friendship, that it is better to walk together into the same room, to talk and to eat together to create a brighter future. The concert in the Albert Hall ended with The Last Post, with the promise we all make to remember those who have died and to wear our poppies with pride.
What is rather special is that my Geordie, the 5th Earl’s great Grandson, is to become an Honorary Vice President of SSAFA and I know he will follow the same tradition.
Instagram
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Humbling and beautiful. A most fitting tribute to a heartbreaking chapter in history. I think I would have been in tears for most of the concert- the music you describe is incredibly beautiful and moving. Your recognition of great need, and charity work to help, are so important.
Congratulations to Lord Carnarvon for his appointment. He will, of course, do well. You are both to be congratulated for your service.
Looking forward to next Monday’s blog. Thank you.
Thank you.
It was lovely to meet you again at Heroes at Highclere, albeit briefly. Well done to you, your husband, and your whole team for delivering an excellent and most enjoyable event.
I am familiar with the work of SSAFA, having had contact with them in the past through work, and was delighted to see them featured at your event.
If you hold a Heroes event again, I really must try to attend on both days next time.
Thank you Mark, it was a great team effort.
My niece was widowed at age 28 when her husband was killed in action in Afghanistan. Their son was 5 days from his 3rd birthday. TAPS has proven to be an integral part of their lives, providing support in many ways and providing activities which foster relationships with other individuals who have lost their Hero. Thank you for giving your voice and support to such a wonderful cause.
Thank you. I am so glad that TAPS has been able to help your niece and her son in their hour of need, as they do many families. It is quite humbling.
The concert sounds wonderfully moving and uplifting! Thank you for encouraging such a noble endeavor as SSAFA. My 33-year-old, now-civilian son is an engineer, with a great job, but his many, mostly unseen disabilities, acquired while serving in Iraq, with the Air Force, would be overwhelming without support. That support honors the sacrifices that our military members have made and are willing to make for us. Thank you for your kindness in this.
It was so uplifting!
Just discovered your blog and so enjoy reading it. In 2005 we visited the UK for 11 weeks. It was this time of year and we were struck with the strong commitment to remember past wars and those who served. We proudly wore our poppies along with so many UK residents. On another trip we were at Trafalgar Square on 11/11/11. Very moving. Thank you for your thoughtful insights.
Thank you. It is always a moving and poignant experience to be a part of a Remembrance Sunday service.
It seems that you had a wonderful evening. Congratulations to your husband!
Thank you. He is delighted and very honoured.
I forgot to mention that when I started reading your blog, I thought that I was reading the opening of a short story. I enjoy writing (short stories) and they teach you to “Show, not tell,” and your descriptions of things are very good. You should try your hand at writing short stories. You certainly have the talent!
You are kind – I learn each Monday and consciously try to write a short story. The blog is a good discipline and as I get into my next book I think I am less rusty, I hope! Writing is not a walk in the park!!!!
Dear Lady Carnavon:
I found your description of the Symphony, Heroes at Highclere, and SSAFA and TAPS very moving. Congratulations to Lord Carnavon on his appointment as Vice-Chairman. I know well the stresses of war as my son served in the Marine Core and fought in Iraq. I was fortunate in that he returned home, but I attended the funerals of many of our fine young men who returned beneath our flag. Thank you for all you do to promote your charitable work.
Thank you.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
It sounded like a wonderful evening, I would have been in tears at the Last post, I always get a tingle down my spine when I hear it, I also think it’s important for us to remember all the men, women and animals who have given their life’s protecting our wonderful Country. Congratulations to Lord Carnarvon on his appointment.
Regards Lorraine.xx
I will say thank you from him!!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for sharing the above with us. Also, congratulations to your husband, Geordie, on being appointed an Honorary Vice President of SSAFA. He undoubtedly will fill that role with distinction.
The Invictus Games are currently taking place in Sydney. The Opening Ceremony took place last Saturday at the forecourt of the Sydney Opera House. Prince Harry delivered an inspiring speech, in which he said:
“In a few weeks’ time we will honour the memory of the generation that fought the First World War — including the sacrifices of the ANZACS whose ethos and heroic actions helped forge the character of this great country.
So much has rightly been made of my grandmother’s generation who endured the horrors of the Second World War and then rebuilt a world order around freedom and tolerance.
The legendary bravery and resilience of the Aussie digger — to this day — commands respect and admiration.
And the efforts of your soldiers to defend this nation and support your allies in theatres from the Kokoda Trail, Vietnam and Korea, to Iraq and Afghanistan, have been outstanding.
The values that define this country’s services — courage, endurance, mateship, sacrifice — are an example to all.
But if we’re being honest, we know that in many nations, the place of our men and women in uniform became too often undervalued in the decades after the Second World War.
The sacrifice and character of our troops never changed, but society’s recognition of them too often wavered.
But that has changed.
A new generation — the Invictus generation — is defining what it means to serve. And we are all taking notice.
The Invictus generation has chosen to serve their countries in conflicts that are complex and dangerous and far too often this dedication goes unrecognised.
They have reminded us all what selfless duty really looks like.
With the help of medical science, the Invictus generation has not only survived injuries that in past conflicts would have been fatal, but has also chosen to fight back from the darkest of places to be here tonight. They have shown us the true meaning of resilience.
When they have been open about their hidden emotional and mental wounds, the Invictus generation has shown us that in today’s world being tough means being honest about how we feel — both inside and out.
When they have taken to the tracks, fields and pools in London, Orlando, and Toronto, the Invictus generation has exemplified sportsmanship, bravery and world class athleticism.
They have shown us all that the most difficult challenges can be overcome.
When the families and friends of our competitors have lifted them up, overseen their recoveries, and cheered them across the finish lines, the Invictus generation has redefined what shared sacrifice means.
They have reminded us all of our duties to each other — to support our mates, to serve our communities, and to respect those closest to us and those whose stories we will never know.
And when all of us have watched the Games on TV or in the stands, we too have become part of the Invictus generation.
We have learned to reject pessimism and cynicism. We have allowed ourselves to be inspired. And we have shared in moments of hope, joy, and triumph that have served as an antidote to the narrative of division and despair we too often allow to define our era.
So when all of you compete over the next week, remember that you do so,
not just for yourselves; not just for your families; not just for your nations.
You are competing with different flags on your chest, but you are competing together for one Invictus generation.
You are the unconquered generation. You are the optimistic generation. You are the new generation of service and you are the role models to us all.“
(I had initially intended to only include a portion of the above, but the message is of such importance that I dared not to indiscriminately limit or edit the above words.)
Yours faithfully,
Jeffery Sewell
PS Prince Harry’s speech of last Saturday was delivered 45 years to the day after his grandmother, The Queen, officially opened the Sydney Opera House.
Thank you for including the entire speech, I would not have seen it otherwise. And it was definitely worth the time.
I always look for your comments on Lady Carnarvons messages Jeffery, and am most inspired by your thoughts on the significance of the Invictus Games. Well Done.
Kim, Gold Coast
Thank you Jeffrey.
CONGRATULATIONS MISTER JEFFERY
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Once again it gives us joy to read your blog.
Please give our congratulations to Lord Carnarvon on his appointment, that is such an honor and so exciting.
I pray our countries can actually learn something from the past and come together with more civility and human kindness soon.
We send much love to you there.
Thank you !
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
The description of your night at the Symphony was such a delight to read. I would love to have been there. Royal Albert Hall is so beautiful. I also loved the story and the video about the history of the SSAFA. So much needed charity through the many years. Congratulations to your husband as well.
Thank you,
Peggy
Thank you for watching the video!
My Dear Lady Carnarvon,
A most important post…I was so blessed to meet the soldier at the SSAFA tent at the Heroes event. He was so kind. And I was doubly BLESSED to meet Lord Carnarvon at the same time. We three posed for a few pictures together. It is a treasured memory for me. As another person said, I would definitely stay for both days in a future visit. I am so sorry we did not attend the Church service. My Husband tells everyone he talks to about the Heroes event. It was one more step towards mending the hurt from the Vietnam war. Thank you for inviting us.
I imagine that wonderful symphony was very, very moving. I’m guessing the red shower was poppies…correct? I bought some sparkly poppy pins at the SSAFA tent when we were at the Heroes event. I wear them here at every function I go to. I’m so glad you and Lord Carnarvon were able to attend. You are so generous with your support of such meaningful charities. A night listening to such wonderful music is well earned. I admire you both.
May I ask an off topic question, please? My Sister called last night whilst she was watching Downton. She asked me a question that stumped me. When they show the ‘cottages’ where people live like John and Anna Bates, where are those structures located? I know they are not close to the Castle or we would have seen them. I promised her I would ask. It seems very trivial after such an important event as the Memorial Concert, but I thought I should ask for her.
I will be sending something to you in the mail soon. I hope it finds you!
God Bless you.
Anna and Bates cottage is here as was Carson and Mrs Hughes! Fun facts..
It was an amazing concert with poppies at the end you are right.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Very moving that concert, it must have been very nice to attend. One day I should hope to go to a concert at the Royal Albert Hall, or at least pass by, the building is beautiful.
I really appreciated to hear the lady and the gentleman in the video’s devotion to the cause of the SSAFA. Also the gratefulness of the gentleman who decided to give back for what he got when he needed it. Describing how he got so much more than expected, demonstrate that this association doesn’t just give, it really takes the time to evaluate the people’s situations and goes the extra mile when able to. Very inspiring, it invites us to reflect on our part in helping others in our community.
I wonder if there is something similar in Canada… for veterans, probably, I shall seek for it! (c :
Always a joy to read you!
Salutations!
Chantal Leblanc
I found a survivors charity in the US – which is the term they use (TAPS) and invited them as well and was able to support them in a small way I tried to reach out to Canada to find one but sometimes it is just me and I cannot wiggle through so to speak!!! Heroes come in many guises – from the bereaved children to mothers or siblings …
Indeed! (c :
Dear Lady Carnarvon
Thank you for your inspiring description of the Great War Symphony and for the support to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity that you and the Earl of Carnarvon have given to us, not least at the wonderful Heroes at Highclere weekend.
Our aim is to alleviate need, suffering and distress amongst those serving in this Nation’s Armed Forces, veterans and their families in order to create independence and dignity. The need for our services is as high as it was one hundred years ago; last year we supported over 73,000 people, ranging from veterans of the Second World War and their families through to those who have who have served in more recent conflicts, especially in Iraq and Afghanistan.
We are all thrilled that the Earl has agreed to become an Honorary Vice President, continuing your family’s links to our charity.
Sir Andrew Gregory
Controller, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity
Thank you – I hope Heroes highlighted the past but for today. The concert pulled at the heart – it had a deeper resonance and was beautifully constructed. The need for support is as great now given how long we all live. It has been an honour working with you all and I am sure there will be more adventures!
Thank you for another glimpse of truthful art by U.K. collaborators of heroically beautiful entertainment. Wish Mark Twain could have seen it.
Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Families Association, SSEFA, what a wonderful effort you continue to do to support such charities and how nice to see that they were represented at the Heroes at Highclere. Warm congratulations to Lord Carnarvon for his appointment, what an honor! Thank you for taking us along to the concert at the Royal Albert Hall, what a grand performance it must have been. May we never forget…all who have served…everywhere. Thank you for such a nice blog.
It was a special evening …
Three of my uncles were killed in the First World War.One in The Somme,one in Belgium and one in France.We found one of my uncle’s graves in Ypres a few years back.It was very touching as my Dad had never managed to visit any of the graves.
Oh my goodness..it is hard
Dear Lady Carnarvon ,
Thank you for sharing the concert at wonderful Albert Hall and for bringing moving and important facts about SSAFA. – Living in a country like Sweden, war is very distant in history, our last war happened 200 years ago. Sometimes I wonder if we, as a people, have become too spoiled, less empatic and too individualistic. In Britain there are so many events and societies of charity and you do it so well and charming and I believe it is a great help to many. I have always admired England for your strength in WW2.
God bless you all.
I was thrilled that the Swedish Ambassador here in London came to Heroes in September – in every way the Nobel peace prize is an extraordinary Scandinavian contribution!
MY DEAR LADY CARNARVON,
CONGRATULATIONS TO LORD CARNARVON ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS VICE – CHAIRMAIN. IT WAS A VERY SPECIAL EVENING FOR US.
THE WARS ARE HEARTBREAKING CHAPTER IN HISTORY.
MARIA AUGUSTA PINHEIRO. VILA ALEMÃ. RIO CLARO SP BRAZIL
Dear Lady Carnarvon
Thank you so much, Sophie and I had such a wonderful visit to your wonderful Castle today in our search for Downton Abbey memorabilia.
We learnt so much about the history and were fascinated.
We so enjoyed meeting you and seeing your adorable puppies!
Jenny and Sophie Iles
Leafield Farm and Pilates Barn
Quenington
Thank you for coming here! I hope you will try some recipes and we for sure share a love a pilates (and for me yoga!)
Lady Carnarvon:
It is indeed extremely important that we continue to be reminded of the sacrifice made by those young men and women who have fought in past wars. That we realized it is because of their sacrifice that we enjoy the freedoms that we do today, is an important lesson to us all. Therefore, we should not fritter away these hard won freedoms, which we all take so much for granted, but guard them with the the fierceness with which they were won.
Thank you for all you do remind us of this.
Bev
PS: This blog post is apropos as the Invictus Games play out in Australia!!
Your support and that of many others is so appreciated by veterans (yours and ours) and their families. Thank you.
Wonderful coverage of the Great War Symphony and congratulations to Lord Carnarvon! It is so important that we continue to remember all who sacrificed for our freedom. Here in the US we have an organization called Honor Flight that provides free air transport for veterans to come to see the beautiful WW2 Memorial here in DC.
I truly love anything about British events, history and programming. My fondest wish is to visit the land of my British ancestors and to include Highclere on my tour, hopefully. May God bless you and your family with peace and love!
Thank you.
Dear Lady Carnarvorn
I would searching for some documents in Albanian archives i found some documents reguarding Lady Elisabeth Catherine Herbert, Countess of Carnarvon as her testament and the documentation to create the Herbert Institute etc etc. i would love to send them to you or someone representing the family.
Thank you!
I would love to see them – my predecessor was very practical and very kind
Quoting you: “Lord Carnarvon would have held the appointment until his death. It makes great sense to me that he helped SSAFA as he continued to pay the wages to the families of the menfolk of Highclere who had been sent to war – their families needed something to live on.”
This to me is/was the makings of a great man to take care of all those families. He honored all those men by doing this.
Val LaBore