A Carol Concert Full of Joy, Laughter and Leaping Lords

Yesterday afternoon brought one of those moments that perfectly captures the spirit of a civic Christmas.

I was delighted to be a guest of the Lord Mayor of Oxford, Louise Upton, at her annual Carol Concert at Oxford Town Hall. Over the past few months Louise and I have shared a number of public engagements, and I have come to admire not just her formidable commitment to social justice, but also her sense of humour and sheer joy for life. It makes for a rather wonderful combination in a Lord Mayor.

The concert itself was an absolute delight. It showcased, yet again, the extraordinary talent nurtured by Oxfordshire County Music Service, with superb performances from choirs and the young people’s symphony orchestra. There is something profoundly hopeful about seeing and hearing young musicians fill a civic space with confidence, generosity and skill. Add to that the glorious sound of the Father Willis organ and you have a truly uplifting afternoon.

As befits the Lord Mayor’s flagship fundraising event of the civic year, the concert was also inclusive and thoughtful. The whole performance was interpreted in British Sign Language, ensuring that everyone present could share fully in the music and the moment. I was especially pleased to hear that almost £5,000 was raised for the Lord Mayor’s chosen charities: The Gatehouse, OXSRAD and Trax – organisations doing vital work with people who are too often unheard.

There were, of course, lighter moments too. I was honoured (and slightly alarmed) to be cast as Good King Wenceslas, with Jonathan, Louise’s consort, bravely taking on the role of the Page while Louise signed the words. Yes, there is video evidence, and no, I am not sure I will ever live it down.

And then there was my civic duty during The Twelve Days of Christmas. Alongside Louise and others, I can confirm that the “lords a-leaping” section was observed properly and enthusiastically. If there is a rulebook for such things, I am confident we followed it to the letter.

An afternoon full of music, generosity, laughter and a little leaping – a perfect reminder of what civic life at its best can feel like.