Taunton Music Scholar Anthony Knight meets Princess of Wales at Royal Carol Service

Violinist Anthony Knight, 17, was chosen to represent Taunton School at this year’s Westminster Abbey carol service in recognition of his extraordinary fund-raising concerts to help children in conflict zones around the world. 

The service, organised for the third year running by the Princess of Wales, recognises those who have gone above and beyond to help others throughout the year. 

“It was such an honour to meet the Princess of Wales,” said Anthony. “It was like a dream – a once in a lifetime opportunity, for which I am so grateful and honoured. I was blown away when the Princess came up to speak to me. She was so warm and kind-hearted and asked lots of questions about my fundraising.”

Over the last two years, Anthony, who is in his final year at Taunton School, has performed a series of solo concerts to raise money for the DEC Ukraine Appeal and UNICEF. 

Anthony was awarded Taunton Young Musician of the Year in 2022 and was given a prestigious county award by the High Sheriff of Somerset. He is now attempting to raise £20,000 for UNICEF, with a series of concerts in hotels across Europe. 

Anthony has already played in Venice, Riga and Vilnius, continuing in Vienna, Prague and Budapest in the New Year. 

The ‘Together at Christmas’ Carol Service at Westminster Abbey was spearheaded by the Princess of Wales and supported by The Royal Foundation. It is a Christmas celebration highlighting the importance of providing nurturing environments for young children.