MY daughter, Isobel Daws, 12, is in the National Children’s Orchestra who played to the Queen and guests at Westminster Hall for the Diamond Jubilee, she has written an account of her day:
We were driven into central London which looked amazing with Union Jacks and people everywhere. After arriving at Westminster Hall, the coaches were searched by sniffer dogs. We were then all security checked and were issued with special passes displaying Westminster Hall visitors.
Once in our uniform, we entered the Westminster Hall, what a building! It was huge, with circular tables everywhere, gold chairs with red cushions and a floral bouquet on each table.
After several hours of entertaining the early guests, there was an announcement that the Queen’s arrival was imminent. We waited a further 20 minutes before the Royal Family arrived. First to come in was the Queen and I still cannot believe how close I was to her. Following the Queen was the rest of the Royal Family including Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, who looked so beautiful.
Prince Charles, Camilla and Prince Harry walked passed us to take their places at the lunch and as they walked passed, we began to play a lovely piece of music called Roast Beef of Old England. I noticed the Queen look at me as I played my trombone.
We carried on playing for several hours. It was amazing to see the Royal Family so close to us and enjoying our music. We found out later on that the Duchess of Cambridge had particularly enjoyed listening to the orchestra and I really hope that she comes to hear us again soon.
I still cannot believe that I was actually part of this memorable weekend and thank the NCO for this amazing opportunity.Who would of thought that when I first picked up my trombone in 2008 that three-and-a-half years later I would be playing to the Queen!
Sarah Daws
Stanmore
