Over the past five years, Kate Middleton’s annual Together at Christmas carol service has become the unofficial start of the holiday season for royal watchers. By now, we’ve grown accustomed to the evening’s signature touches—the candlelit Westminster Abbey, the parade of impeccably tailored winter coats among the arriving guests, and the gathering of the extended royal family. The event typically takes place in early December before airing on Christmas Eve.
What we didn’t anticipate this year, however, was that the most moving musical moment would come not from a chart-topping guest performer, but from the royal box—or more precisely, from the piano bench.
In a surprise that left many of the 1,500 attendees visibly moved, the Princess of Wales returned to the piano. She had last played at the inaugural service in 2021, accompanying singer-songwriter Tom Walker on his Christmas song “For Those Who Can’t Be Here.” This time, she was joined by an even more unexpected partner: her 10-year-old daughter, Princess Charlotte. Sitting side-by-side at a Steinway piano, mother and daughter delivered a tender four-hand arrangement of “Silent Night,” offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their close bond.
The Princess of Wales was also dressed for the occasion. After arriving in a sharp forest-green coat dress by Catherine Walker, she changed into something more festive for the performance: a midnight blue velvet dress. Princess Charlotte complemented her in a coordinated outfit—a navy blue sweater with a scalloped collar, a plaid skirt, and a sparkling gold ribbon in her hair. Their matching looks proved as harmonious as their duet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Princess Charlotte and Kate Middletons piano duet for the Together at Christmas event designed to sound like questions from real people
General Beginner Questions
Q What exactly happened with Kate and Princess Charlotte
A For the 2023 Together at Christmas carol service a short video was released showing Kate Middleton and her daughter Princess Charlotte playing a sweet piano duet together at home
Q What song did they play
A They played a simplified version of the Christmas carol Once in Royal Davids City
Q Where can I watch the video
A The clip was posted on The Prince and Princess of Waless official social media channels and was featured in the TV broadcast of the carol service
Q How old was Princess Charlotte at the time
A Princess Charlotte was 8 years old when the video was filmed
Q What is the Together at Christmas event
A Its an annual carol service organized by Kate Middleton the Princess of Wales to celebrate and thank those who support communities especially during the festive season It features performances readings and brings people together
Details Context Questions
Q Why was this moment so special to people
A It was a rare genuine glimpse into their private family life It showed a normal tender motherdaughter moment of shared learning and music which many found relatable and heartwarming
Q Who was teaching whom Did Kate teach Charlotte
A While Kate is known to play the piano in the video it appears they are learning and playing the duet together Kate guides Charlotte with the timing saying Keep going and they share a proud smile at the end suggesting a collaborative effort
Q Was this prerecorded or live at the event
A It was a prerecorded segment filmed at their home Adelaide Cottage It was edited into the broader carol service broadcast
Q Did any other royal children participate
A Prince George and Prince Louis were not featured in a musical performance for this event The focus of this particular clip was on the motherdaughter duet