Watch King Charles play the carrot recorder with the London Vegetable Orchestra
Warning: This video contains flashing images
King Charles has played a carrot recorder with the London Vegetable Orchestra during a reception at Windsor Castle.
His Majesty hosted 350 guests, including leaders of community music groups and music-related projects, to recognise those involved in community music across the UK.
The King joined the London Vegetable Orchestra in a rather unusual rendition of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
After the performance, the King told the crowd he would be taking the carrot home with him.
One member told Charles the vegetable recorder was “specially made”, adding that they “stayed up all night making it.”
The London Vegetable Orchestra prides itself as the UK’s only ensemble to use instruments made up of hand-crafted local vegetables.
The group was founded over 10 years ago by musicians studying at the Royal Academy of Music, all of whom are now professionals.
Their other instruments include potatoes, peppers and swedes.
Buckingham Palace said the evening aimed to highlight the work of “grassroots groups and projects”, and “celebrate the vital role music plays in strengthening communities and the important work of those developing future musical leaders.”
The King returned to public duties on Tuesday after spending time in hospital last Thursday for side effects of his cancer treatment.
It is understood the side effects, of which specifics have not been disclosed, were temporary and not uncommon with many medical treatments.
Charles cancelled an official visit to Birmingham on Friday to prioritise his recovery, after being hospitalised on Thursday following scheduled treatment.
Buckingham Palace said he experienced “temporary side effects” that required a “short period of observation in hospital”.
Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February 2024 and returned to public-facing duties last April, despite still undergoing weekly treatment.
Since his diagnosis, the King’s diary of engagements is understood to have been developed in full consultation with his medical team at all stages to protect and prioritise his recovery.
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