Gloucester Cathedral celebrates its American connections with special guests

For immediate release

The service gave thanks for John Stafford Smith, composer of the music for The Star-Spangled Banner, the American national anthem, who was baptised in Gloucester Cathedral in 1750. This year marks the 275th anniversary of his baptism, a moment that highlights how Gloucester’s heritage transcends international borders.

Welcomed by the Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, Their Royal Highnesses enjoyed music performed by the Cathedral Choir. The service featured works by composers with American ties, including Herbert Sumsion, Thomas Tertius Noble, Robert S. Cohen and John Stafford Smith.

As Patrons of Gloucester Cathedral’s ambitious In Tune Organ and Music Campaign, Their Royal Highnesses support the preservation of the Cathedral’s rich musical heritage. During their visit, the Duke and Duchess met with choristers from the Cathedral and heard about the progress of the In Tune campaign. The In Tune campaign seeks to unlock musical potential across the city, county and diocese through the launch of the Gloucester Cathedral Singing and Organ Academies, the rebuilding of the historic organ, and the growth of the Cathedral’s choirs. The campaign aims to raise £3 million by 2026.

The Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, said:

"It was a great joy to welcome Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester to the Cathedral as we celebrated our musical heritage. Marking the 275th anniversary year of John Stafford Smith’s baptism here at Gloucester Cathedral is a powerful reminder of how music can transcend international borders.

We are proud of the Cathedral’s rich musical legacy, and through our In Tune campaign, we are committed to ensuring that this legacy continues to inspire future generations across our city, county and diocese."

To find out more about the In Tune campaign please visit:

https://gloucestercathedral.org.uk/support/in-tune-organ-and-music-campaign

ENDS

About Gloucester Cathedral:

Gloucester Cathedral is a glorious sacred space in the heart of Gloucester, with a history that can be traced back to 679AD. It is the mother church of the Diocese of Gloucester and welcomes around 400,000 visitors every year. The Cathedral is open daily, with entry by donation, and hosts a packed and varied programme of services and events throughout the year.

About In Tune:

In Tune is an ambitious music campaign which aims to raise £3 million by 2026 to fund the rebuilding of the Cathedral’s famous organ and a variety of exciting initiatives to unlock musical potential and opportunity across the city, county and diocese.