ON THE MOST MAGICAL PERFORMANCE OF HER LIFE
INTERVIEW: SALLY MORGAN To book tickets for Alis’s performance at Highgrove, visit highgrovegardens.com.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
T he celestial sound of the Coronation Orchestra will raise the rafters at Westminster Abbey when the King is crowned, and among the musicians preparing to make history is the official royal harpist, Alis Huws, whose melodies will enchant millions of viewers around the globe.
“I’m so excited,” she tells us in this exclusive interview with HELLO!. “It’s a huge honour to have been invited to play a part and to join so many amazing musicians to perform traditional music, as well as the new pieces written for the occasion.
“I was asked to represent His Majesty’s strong links to Wales,” continues Alis, who grew up on a sheep farm in Powys. “This will be a day I never forget and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”
She was appointed royal harpist – a position created during the reign of Queen Victoria and restored by the then Prince of Wales 23 years ago – in 2019, and is the sixth person to hold the title.
“The King has always been very kind and supportive,” says Alis, 28, who plays for His Majesty in private and at royal events in front of diplomats and heads of state.
But when she showcases her skills to around 2,000 guests at the coronation, plus royal fans tuning in all over the world, it will be the largest audience she has ever commanded.
“I’m nervous before any performance, but I’ll concentrate on getting the notes right and take a minute to appreciate the special nature of the day,” she says.
Alis will play the Royal Harp – a magnificent instrument, covered in gold leaf, that features the Prince of Wales feathers and symbols of Welsh identity, such as the daffodil, indicating fidelity; the dragon, signifying protection; and a love spoon, representing a couple destined to be together for ever.
IN TUNE WITH CHARLES
Created in 2006 by Italian harp-maker Victor Salvi’s most skilled carvers and gilders, it was made with input on the design from the Prince, in accordance with the tradition that a harp reflect its owner’s character.
“It’s so beautiful and unique,” says Alis of the stunning instrument, which is part of the Royal Collection and resides at Clarence House. “I��
