Music at Home: 'Shchedryk' Resonates in Westminster Abbey

On December 25, 2025, the Christmas address delivered by King Charles III concluded with a musical gesture that resonated far beyond the typical confines of ceremonial tradition.

Within the historic walls of Westminster Abbey, the Ukrainian folk song 'Shchedryk' filled the space. Known globally as 'Carol of the Bells,' this ancient rhythm was woven into the fabric of a modern, global conversation.

The performance featured the 'Songs for Ukraine' choir, a collective established at the Royal Opera House in 2023. This ensemble was joined by soloists Olga Terletska and Arina Koroletska, members of the Royal Opera Chorus, the Royal Harpist, Mared Emlyn Pugh-Evans, and military musicians.

Music as a Common Ground

The monarch's Christmas message centered on themes of courage, reconciliation, and responsibility amidst times of global uncertainty. Yet, it was the music that served as the universal language, one that requires no translation.

'Shchedryk' is more than just a song; it is a sonic representation of natural cycles, the return of light, and the continuity of life itself. Echoing through the Abbey's acoustics, this melody acted as a powerful reminder: culture does not divide; it connects.

The choice of this particular piece underscored a commitment to shared human experience over political divides. It was a moment where the solemnity of the occasion met the heartfelt resonance of folk tradition.

The Planet as Our Shared Home

At that precise moment, Westminster Abbey transcended its role as merely a symbol of British heritage. It transformed into a focal point of shared resonance, a place where diverse traditions, languages, and individual fates converged in a single, unified sound.

This unity was achieved without overt slogans or grand declarations. It was conveyed purely through the breath of the choir and the inherent simplicity of the folk melody.

Once again, music demonstrated its true purpose: not simply to accompany events, but to actively forge spaces of unity. It served as a bridge between disparate experiences, grounding the audience in a collective moment.

The Global Impact of This Performance

When 'Shchedryk' is performed, the listener hears less about a specific country or historical era, and more about the concept of 'Home.'

A home defined by a single roof—the sky above—and a singular foundation—life itself. It is a rhythm through which the Planet remembers its own wholeness.

This event highlighted how artistic expression can cut through complexity, offering clarity and connection when words often fail. The performance in Westminster Abbey served as a poignant testament to the enduring power of shared cultural heritage in fostering global understanding.