The Gloucesters in Gloucester on a musical outing

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester paid a visit to Gloucester Cathedral on Tuesday to visit with members of its musical departments.

The Duke and Duchess are both big supporters of choral music and cathedrals, with the Duke patron of Cathedrals in Pilgrimage and the Duchess patron of Cathedral Music Trust.

At Gloucester Cathedral, both are patrons of the ongoing In Tune Organ and Music campaign.

During their visit, they met with the Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, the Dean of Gloucester, and its musical departments before enjoying a performance at Choral Evensong.

According to the Royal Family’s website, the Duke’s Cathedrals in Pilgrimage patronage sees him visit cathedrals around the United Kingdom to learn more about their operations.

In a media release on the Gloucester Cathedral website, the Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester to the Cathedral, who are keen supporters of music and its benefits. Their presence with us also brought joy and encouragement to our staff who work extensively in the community, delivering on the Cathedral’s mission and outreach in the areas of social responsibility and diversity.”

Gloucester Cathedral can trace its origins back to 679AD and welcomes around 400,000 visitors every year.

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, as mentioned, are patrons of the In Tune Organ and Music campaign at the Gloucester Cathedral, which aims to raise £3 million to refurbish the cathedral’s organ and contribute to the musical education of young people in the area.

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester also visited the Hereford Cathedral on Monday, as part of the Duke’s work with the Cathedrals in Pilgrimage.