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The Kents

The Duchess of Kent celebrates music at reception in London

It’s long been known as one of her great passions in life and earlier this month, the Duchess of Kent celebrated the world of music as she made a rare public appearance at an event in London. The duchess, in her role as Emeritus President of the Royal Northern College of Music, welcomed students past and present as well as staff to a special evening at St. James’ Palace.

Over 90 people attended the event on September 4th 2019 which included a reception and meal as well as speeches and music. The Principal of the RNCM, Linda Merrick, said ”It was an honour to celebrate our achievements with friends old and new, and to offer them an intimate glimpse into our exciting and dynamic world. I would like to take this opportunity to thank HRH The Duchess of Kent personally for hosting so graciously what was a truly wonderful evening.”

By Fergus Burnett Photography (fergusburnett.com)

The Royal Northern College of Music, which is based in Manchester, was set up in its present form in 1973 with the aim of providing world class training to musicians. It can trace its roots back to the Royal Manchester College of Music which was established by Sir Charles Halle in 1898. Now, the conservatoire has around 880 students being taught by over 320 staff.

The Duchess of Kent’s support for music has been prolific throughout her royal life. She has given her support to a wide range of music associations and charities and when she stepped back from public life she spent some time as a music teacher herself. She helped set up Future Talent, a charity that helps children from low income families learn instruments, and in 2016 she hosted a concert for them at Buckingham Palace.

The duchess, who is now 86, is seen occasionally at royal events but has kept an increasingly low profile in recent years.

All photos kindly shared by RNCM and their creator, Fergus Burnett Photography (fergusburnett.com).

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.