Cathedral Choristers' Netherlands Tour

Date: Tuesday 27 November 2007

Photo: copyright Thomas Hooley 2007

It seems as though Canterbury Cathedral Choir has its own special following in the Netherlands. Every three years or so, the choir makes a short visit to the south of the country to give two concerts, most recently by the boys alone.

Our last visit took place in the recent half term. We travelled to Deurne where we were hosted by some very generous and kind families, all attached in some way to the Willibrord Gymnasium, the local “grammar” school. The Choristers sang a concert in Deurne to a packed church. The audience gave two standing ovations; one even after the encore!

We received the same response at our concert in the Abbey church in Huissen, a beautiful old building with an historic organ. The concerts included many of our favourite pieces and the choristers sang them with such wonderful panache. There were many soloists, all of whom gave ravishing performances.

On the third day, we went to de Efteling, the biggest theme park in Europe, where we spent a hugely enjoyable day. Some rides seem to have magnetic attraction to some boys who enjoyed being whirled around time after time! Even Mr Lambert and Dr Flood were to be found on the “Bob” and the “Python”!

The concerts were great occasions and the time spent with host families was excellent. We look forward to the next time we can go and continue our relationship with our Dutch friends and supporters.

Dr David Flood

Master of the Cathedral choristers and Cathedral Organist