November 16, 2018

Continental Europe

Only a few blogs to go for me, before I hang up my vocal cords and embark on a new adventure - and yes, I know I haven't been as diligent these last few weeks, but please forgive me! I managed to injure my lower leg and ankle, quite badly, and have been convalescing as much as possible, given our touring commitments. So, were you to have seen me over the past fortnight or so, I would have been holed up in my hotel room with my leg elevated! This week we're visiting quite a few different European countries for Tim's and my farewell concerts before we head across to the US for our December tour. Some are more familiar than others; I can count on the fingers of one hand how many concerts I've performed in Sweden (tomorrow's country) and we haven't toured Hungary or Finland much in recent years, whereas of course Italy and Germany have been high up in terms of visiting regularity since 2004. I've very much enjoyed seeing old friends and having the chance to say goodbye; especially in Holland, where some of my first KS audience members were present at my final few Dutch concerts a few weeks ago! I'll miss them very much. And, of course, each concert is unique and worthy, wherever we may sing. It's that time of year when we start to dust off the Christmas repertoire and ensure it's ready to be performed, and we're starting with a special Advent concert at King's College, Cambridge on 27 November. Returning to my old university is always an emotional experience, but having it as the venue for my final UK concert will add to the poignancy, especially with Stephanie and other family members in attendance. I hope I'll be mobile enough to enjoy a walk (probably crutch-aided!) through the familiar streets at some point during the day!