We found that miracle in Harriet.
“With incredibly little notice, Harriet stepped in to perform solos as well as a finale leading our Choir and the wonderful Gwalia Singers from South Wales,” said CMVC Chairman Mark Pratley. “It took tremendous nerve nerve to do but she took it all in her stride and won the audience’s acclaim. Given her exceptional talent, it’s no surprise.”
Harriet, a Year 12 student at The King’s School, Gloucester, holds both academic and music scholarships. Her musical résumé already shines: she was an inaugural Girl Chorister at Gloucester Cathedral, later becoming Head Chorister; performed at the Three Choirs Festival across all three host cities; sang Mahler’s Third Symphony with the BBC Philharmonic at Bridgewater Hall; toured Germany to perform with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra; and has appeared as a soloist on BBC Radio 3 broadcasts.
The evening again showcased the brilliance of Pippa Harrison and James Willshire (The Willshire Piano Duo) who again earned a huge ovation.
Over forty members of the excellent Gwalia Singers travelled from Swansea for the concert with the Cirencester Male Voice choir. The Gwalia celebrate 60 years of song in 2026 and are under the leadership of Matthew Sims and accompanist Rhian Liles.
The concert raised £2,500 for Longfield Hospice, which provides compassionate care for adults in Gloucestershire with life-limiting conditions and supports their families and carers.
“Not only are we grateful to Harriet for quite literally saving the day,” added Pratley, “but we also extend our thanks to the Gwalia Singers, the Willshire Piano Duo, and, of course, the generous people of Cirencester and the surrounding villages, who helped us raise such a fantastic sum.