King Charles Tries His Hand at Steel Pans Ahead of Commonwealth Meeting
His Majesty played the instrument during a reception at St James's Palace, marking the countdown to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
King Charles displayed a musical inclination by trying out the steel pans at a reception held at St James's Palace. The event served as a prelude to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled to take place next month in Antigua and Barbuda, where the King and Queen are expected to travel.
During the reception, the King engaged with Khan Cordice, the Director of Culture for Antigua and Barbuda, who is also a steelpan musician. His Majesty played a few notes on the instrument, remarking to Cordice, "I can't do it as good as you." Cordice later joked that he would offer the King lessons.
Cordice shared that the King had looked him up and was a fan of his playing. He also recounted the King's self-deprecating comments about his own ability, noting that His Majesty felt he needed a better teacher and perhaps better instruments.
Around 300 guests attended the event, including the Duchess of Gloucester, Secretary-General of The Commonwealth Secretariat The Hon. Shirley Botchwey, and former Doctor Who actor Peter Davidson. Cordice also expressed that hosting CHOGM represents a significant opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda, viewing it as a "stepping stone to bigger things" that will allow the nation to "think bigger."
Peter Davidson recounted meeting the King, recalling a past collaboration on a John Cleese production. Davidson mentioned that he told the King he was a good actor and should consider returning to it. He also commented on the King's early advocacy for environmental issues.
The royal couple also met with High Commissioners, representatives from Commonwealth-associated organizations, and supporters of The King's Trust International and the British Asian Trust.