Royal wedding 2018 latest: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reveal musicians chosen to perform at ceremony

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are gearing up for their big day: PA
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are gearing up for their big day: PA

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have shared some further details about the Royal Wedding service at St George's Chapel.

Both Harry and Meghan have taken a great deal of interest and care in choosing the music for their service, which will include a number of well-known hymns and choral works.

The music will be under the direction of James Vivian, Director of Music, St George’s Chapel.

Mr. Vivian said: "The Choristers, Lay Clerks, Organists and I are very much looking forward to this exciting day and are pleased to be performing at the service music chosen by the couple.

The couple have announced who will be performing at their wedding (PA)
The couple have announced who will be performing at their wedding (PA)

“We are also looking forward to welcoming to St George’s musical colleagues from near and far who will be performing at this very special and joyful occasion."

A selection of choral groups, soloists, and musicians will perform at the Wedding Service of Prince Harry and Ms Markle at St George's Chapel on May 19.

These are:

The Choir of St George’s Chapel

Conducted by James Vivian, the Choir of St George’s Chapel comprises up to 23 boy choristers from St George’s School and twelve Lay Clerks singing alto, tenor and bass. The Choir, which was founded in 1348, can be heard in venues throughout Europe in addition to its liturgical schedule of eight services per week in St George’s Chapel. Its repertoire draws on music from all ages.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason

Nineteen-year-old cellist, Sheku Kanneh-Mason won BBC Young Musician 2016, made his BBC Proms debut the following year, and released his debut album, ‘Inspiration’, earlier this year. Sheku is a student at the Royal Academy of Music and combines his studies there with a busy international concert career. He is passionate about making classical music accessible to all and is Junior Ambassador for the music education charity London Music Masters. Last June, Prince Harry saw Sheku play at an event in London in support of the work of Antiguan charity the Halo Foundation.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason said: “I’m so excited and honoured to perform at Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle’s wedding. I was bowled over when Ms. Markle called me to ask if I would play during the ceremony, and of course I immediately said yes. What a privilege to be able to play the cello at such a wonderful event. I can’t wait!”

Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir

Founded and directed by gospel conductor Karen Gibson, The Kingdom Choir is a Christian gospel group based in the South-East of England. The Choir is made up of a group of British artists dedicated to creating a sound that demonstrates the community they share, and has been performing both nationally and internationally for over 20 years. Over this time, the choir has become known for its united sound, warm energy and enthusiastic performance.

Karen Gibson said: "The Kingdom Choir is truly honoured to be invited to sing at the wedding of Prince Harry and Ms. Markle, and very excited to be taking part in such a historic moment. It will be a moment that we will always treasure, and we’d like to take the opportunity to wish the couple all the very best for their coming union."

The Orchestra

The Orchestra, conducted by Christopher Warren-Green, will be made up of musicians from the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the English Chamber Orchestra and the Philharmonia.

Elin Manahan Thomas

Elin Manahan Thomas will join the orchestra. Ms. Thomas is a Welsh soprano, best known for her performances of Baroque masterpieces, alongside classical and contemporary works.

David Blackadder

The trumpet will be played by David Blackadder, who will join the Orchestra. Mr. Blackadder is the principal trumpet with both the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the Academy of Ancient Music, and is a specialist in music of the Baroque.

Luke Bond

The Organ will be played by Luke Bond, Assistant Director of Music, St George’s Chapel.

State Trumpeters

State Trumpeters are drawn from all ranks of the Band of the Household Cavalry, and will provide ceremonial support during the Service at St George's Chapel.