As part of the celebrations for Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th Birthday, MYO were asked to play at the lighting of the beacon at Maldon’s Promenade Park. Members had practised a varied programme of British music to entertain the crowds and dignitaries, including Children’s March, Let’s All Go Down the Strand and a selection of Oasis songs. During one rehearsal, they decided that if they played the James Bond theme tune, the Queen might make a special appearance by helicopter, as she had for the Olympic ceremony. Every time they practised it they had a good laugh about the idea.
Two of our members, sisters Darcie and Cerys, decided to write to the Queen to ask her if she would be able to ‘drop in’ on the day. In response they received a letter from the Queen’s Lady in Waiting noting that:
“Although the Queen is unable to do as you ask … she hopes that you and all the members of Maldon Youth Orchestra have a memorable evening.”
They did. It was a wonderful evening, with a lovely atmosphere and we were very honoured to be asked to play.
