Nine Lessons and Carols 2024

It was a wonderful evening at Truro Cathedral, where the beautiful voices of the Truro School chamber choir rang out a message of Christmas. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols opened with the first verse of ‘Once in Royal David’s City,’ sung by head chorister Natalie, her voice resonating throughout the cathedral.

All nine lessons were read beautifully by members of the Truro School community, including pupils from both the Prep and Senior Schools. The chamber choir delighted with pieces from Handel’s Messiah, Vaughan Williams and Rutter.  The girl choristers delivered a beautiful rendition of “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Darke and the Truro School Prep Choir performed the traditional Scottish carol, “Tàladh Chriosda.”

This event cannot pass without mention of Bishop Edward White Benson, the first Bishop of Truro, who conceived this special service in 1880. His name is forever associated with this significant Christmas service and the inaugural performance held in a temporary wooden building whilst awaiting the construction of Truro Cathedral.

The congregation was also in fine voice and spirits, departing the cathedral after a rousing rendition of “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” at which point, Christmas had truly arrived in Truro. The service was led by Reverend Helen Byrne and the Dean of Truro Cathedral, Simon Robinson.

A special thanks to conductors James Anderson-Besant and Angela Renshaw (Truro Prep Choir), organist Andrew Wyatt, and the Director of Music, Mr. Richard Osmond. The retiring collection supported Children’s Hospice South-West.