STRICTLY UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL 00:01 HRS 8TH NOVEMBER 2024Military Wives Choirs receive a personal thank you letter from His Majesty King Charles III for birthday tribute
The Military Wives Choirs have received a letter of thanks from The King, expressing his appreciation for their new single, 'November Sunday', a song presented as an early birthday gift to celebrate His Majesty’s forthcoming birthday on 14th November.
In the letter, The King said:
I am writing to express my warmest possible gratitude for your very kind early birthday present, in the form of your new single, ‘November Sunday’. While those of us of a certain age may feel the need for any such birthday celebrations is in inverse proportion to our advancing years, I am none the less deeply touched by your wonderfully thoughtful tribute.
I also wanted to thank you for your steadfast support not only for your loved ones serving in our Military, who sacrifice so much time away from you and your families to protect us, but also for one another.
Having sung in a choir myself when I was at school, I know the joy of performing together can create close-knit friendships and support groups, and I remain a firm believer that music has a unique power to unite and inspire us all.
My wife joins me in sending you all our blessings and kindest wishes.
'November Sunday', released on 1st November, is a tribute to His Majesty and reflects the strong ties between the Royal Family and the Armed Forces. The song's evocative lyrics reflect the joy brought to post-war Britain on 14th November 1948, marking the birth of the future King and celebrating the enduring bond with his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
The piece was recorded by 100 singers from the Military Wives Choirs, drawn from the network in the UK and overseas, alongside the magnificent sounds of The Band of the Household Cavalry. With music and lyrics by John McLaren, the track brings together the nostalgia of the 1940s, enhanced by the artistry of platinum-selling producer Sean Hargreaves (Sigala, Paloma Faith, Ella Eyre) and arranger Steve Turner. This cross-genre production offers both the formality of a military ensemble and a bright, pop-influenced appeal.
Caroline Paxton, Chair of Trustees at the Military Wives Choirs, shared:
"We are delighted and deeply honoured to receive such a thoughtful letter from His Majesty The King.
"All of us at the Military Wives Choirs wish our King the happiest of birthdays.
"With singers in our network ranging from 21 to 81, we wholeheartedly embrace the belief that, age is just a number and not a constraint, with each passing year bringing new opportunity and possibility.
"At the heart of our charity is our commitment to community and mutual support, which we cultivate through the joy and unity of singing together."
'November Sunday' is a heartfelt tribute, and we are delighted that His Majesty was touched by it. Our thanks extend to The King and Queen for their generous blessings and warm wishes."
Conductor Hilary Davan Wetton, Artistic Director of the Military Wives Choirs, led the singers, with Major Craig Bywater conducting The Band of the Household Cavalry. This new piece is now a part of our core repertoire and will be performed annually across their network of 70 choirs in the UK and overseas.
The Military Wives Choirs welcomes all women impacted by their military connection with 'open arms'. This includes wives and partners of serving personnel, currently serving women, ex-servicewomen, partners and widows of veterans, and immediate family members, including mothers, sisters and daughters.
'November Sunday' is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube via our website.
Military Wives Choirs will be starting a national tour in 2025 and tickets are on sale now. For details of venues visit our website militarywiveschoirs.org
