In 2022, Anthony Knight, a talented young musician began performing a series of charity recitals featuring the music of Bach and Telemann in churches and care homes across Bath and Wells. Over the course of his project, he gave 75 recitals, including a performance at Wells Cathedral, and raised £13,715 in support of the DEC Ukraine Appeal.
In recognition of his contribution, Anthony was invited to attend the 2023 Westminster Abbey Carol Service where he met the Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales. Anthony has also received a number of awards for his work, including; the High Sheriff's Award for Somerset, the Sandy Padgett Pride of Somerset Youth Award and the Somerset Anne Frank Youth Award.
In 2023, at the House of Commons, he received a Young Achiever Award: ‘Celebrating Future Leaders In Service Of Others’. Anthony says, “I am immensely proud of these achievements, which recognise, not only my violin playing, but also my commitment to music being a force for good in this world.”
Following his work in the Diocese, Anthony launched a sponsored Grand Tour of Europe, performing in 12 countries over 12 months. He travelled 13,500 miles and raised £13,100 for UNICEF. A short video from his recital tour of German cathedrals, performed with his brother Matthew, can be viewed on Youtube.
Earlier this year Anthony was further honoured with an invitation to the Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Now a student at the Royal College of Music, Anthony gave a solo concert titled Classical Gold in Mayfair in June. He has made a high-quality digital recording of the performance and is offering this as a thank you for the warm welcome and encouragement he received in churches across the diocese. It is available to download .
The concert includes pieces by Nigel Hess, John Williams, Telemann, Bach, Massenet, and Ernest Bloch. There is no obligation, but listeners who are able wish to support Anthony's mental health charity, Music In Motion, you can make a donation online.