Live the Beat welcomed to Buckingham Palace in recognition of Intergenerational Choir

Live the Beat was honoured to be invited to a special reception at Buckingham Palace, where representatives of the Sankofa Songsters joined Their Majesties The King and Queen in celebration of community organisations making a difference across the UK.

The invitation recognised the success of the Sankofa Songsters, Live the Beat's intergenerational choir, which brings together older adults, children and members of the wider community through the shared joy of music. It followed the choir's memorable performance at Royal Carols: Together at Christmas at Westminster Abbey, hosted by Catherine, Princess of Wales.

Pictured: Hollie, Amanda, Doreen and Pete

Representing Live the Beat at the Palace were choir leader Amanda Wrigley, volunteer pianist Pete Legge, social prescriber Hollie McDiarmid and one of the choir's most dedicated members, Doreen Barnes, a resident at Belong Chester and an intergenerational champion affectionately known as a "grandfriend" by the children she sings and spends time with each week.

Reflecting on the day, Doreen said:

"We walked into the Palace gardens to the sound of music from the band and then we saw the King and Queen on the garden steps, waving to everyone. It was a lovely day, and I've never had one like it – to sum it up in one word: unforgettable!"

Pete, Doreen and Amanda outside Buckingham Palace

The invitation was a proud moment for everyone involved with Live the Beat and recognised the growing impact of the Sankofa Songsters. The choir demonstrates how music can break down barriers between generations, creating opportunities for children and older adults to build genuine friendships, learn from one another and develop a strong sense of belonging within their community.

Amanda Wrigley, founder of Live the Beat and choir leader, said:

"To receive an invitation to Buckingham Palace was an incredible honour and a wonderful recognition of the work of the Sankofa Songsters. Every rehearsal is about creating meaningful connections between generations through music, and it was incredibly special to see that work celebrated on such a prestigious occasion. We were especially proud that Doreen was able to represent the choir alongside us."

Live the Beat would also like to thank Cheshire Community Foundation and Healthbox CIC for their continued support of the Sankofa Songsters, helping to make these life-changing opportunities possible.

The visit to Buckingham Palace marks another exciting milestone in the choir's journey, but at its heart, the achievement belongs to every child, older adult, volunteer and partner who has helped build a community where music creates lasting friendships, strengthens wellbeing and connects generations.