Lunchtime talk: The origins of carols
Music historian Jeremy Summerly shares the history of Christmas Carols with music brought to life by a quartet of singers from the Special Service Choir of Westminster Abbey.
For many of us, Christmas carols are a familiar and evocative feature of the festive season. But how did they come to form part of our traditional Christmas celebrations?
In this special Christmas lunchtime talk Jeremy Summerly will trace the history of the Christmas carol through the ages, with live music performed by a quartet of singers from the Special Service Choir of Westminster Abbey.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Jeremy Summerly
Jeremy Summerly is Director of Studies in Music at Caius College, Cambridge, having previously been Director of Music at St Peter’s College, Oxford, Visiting Professor of Music History at London’s Gresham College, and Head of Academic Studies at the Royal Academy of Music. He has conducted over forty recordings spanning the music of nine centuries and has given concert tours throughout Europe and the United States as well as in Japan, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Palestine, South Africa, and Botswana; he has conducted a performance of Benjamin Britten’s Hymn to the Virgin across the River Jordan, with one choir in Israel and the other in Jordan As a writer he has contributed articles to BBC Music Magazine, Early Music, The Musical Times, Choir & Organ, Leading Notes, and Classic CD.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates but booking is required. Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
