Omagh musician to perform at Coronation

An Omagh musician will play to a global audience of millions at the start of the Coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey this Saturday.

Philip Turbett, originally from the Gallows Hill area in the town, began playing the bassoon at a very young age.

His father, Brian Turbett, was the conductor of the St Eugene’s Band, of which Philip is now a patron.

“St Eugene’s band has been a huge part of my life, and I still have family members in the band. Whenever I return to Omagh I always try and get down to the old school on a Monday night and play with the group.”

Philip has had a distinguished career as a performer and teacher of music. He has played huge events and worked with some of Britain and Ireland’s most famous classical musicians and conductors.

But nothing he has experienced so far will compare to this weekend.

Millions of people from across the globe will tune in and watch live as King Charles III is crowned.

The beginning of the ceremony in Westminster Abbey will be marked with music and hymns from the English Baroque Soloists.

Philip has been a part of the classical music ensemble for over 20 years.

The group is currently led by world-famous conductor, and close personal friend of King Charles III, John Eliot Gardiner. The King is also the patron of the group.

They will be accompanied by the world-renowned Monteverdi Choir who will sing a selection of baroque classical pieces and King Charles’ favourite hymns.

Philip said that the opportunity to perform as a part of the Coronation is one of the biggest honours of his life.

The Omagh man told the UlsterHerald, “I am incredibly honoured to play at the Coronation.

“I have played in front of large audiences before and done some big concerts throughout my career but nothing will be able to compare with the magnitude and historical
significance that the Coronation will hold.”

Philip said that he would like to commend nationalist politicians Colum Eastwood and Michelle O’Neill, who have accepted invites to the Coronation, stating, “It shows how far we have come in Northern Ireland. This shows real political leadership and just how far we have come as a society in Northern Ireland since the early 1990s.”

He added, “There are quite a few musicians from across Northern Ireland representing the six counties well. The talent and breadth of musicians Northern Ireland produces is amazing for our size.”