Carol and Princess Diana

I remember meeting Princess Diana

I have been a concert musician all my life and performed for some very special people

-- Princess Diana being one of these.

I was graduating from London's Royal Academy of Music
and had been chosen to play for the important Graduation
where Princess Diana would be presiding.

I remember getting up very early on that day, traveling into London with my Mum, Dad and Aunt and
feeling so excited. It was a hot day and the traffic into London was awful.
The parking situation around the Royal Academy of Music on Baker Street was a nightmare.
Security and Police were everywhere. Through all the hustle and bustle, I saw the church where the graduation was taking place.
I went in, turned the organ on and began to practice quietly. I had butterflies in my stomach.
This was a day I knew I would never forget.
I had been chosen to perform for Princess Diana.

I had selected to play Sir William Walton’s Crown Imperial. And now
I was given the signal to perform. I played -- one eye on the music and one eye looking around at all the people.
Finally, after much improvisation we were told Princess Diana had arrived.
I started bringing the music to a close but, then a steward whispered frantically in my ear to carry on
as the Princess needed time to do her hair.
Then she was ready and finally I came to a conclusion with absolute full organ.
The tension in the building rose dramatically.

Princess Diana walked elegantly down the aisle and I had to look.
Cool, calm and collected she was true Royalty.
She gave a look up at me and winked. What a moment!
She had a dazzling smile.
When Diana walked into a building there was a magical aura and I certainly experienced it.
She had a charisma that cannot be replaced.

The whole ceremony went beautifully as planned.

After the ceremony, I had the privilege of meeting her.
Walking up to this great lady I was taken in by her height and poise. Her smile was captivating.
I then embarked on that dreaded curtsy which we had all been drilled and practiced endlessly as
children to perfection for this very auspicious occasion.
I was feeling relieved that I did not display any unladylike, gangling gestures.
Princess Diana shook my hand, smiled and thanked me for performing for her.
I was enthralled to stand in her presence. She had a warmth that was extraordinary
and I immediately understood then why Princess Diana was the most beloved person in our country if not on the planet.
I adored her all my life. She was one outstanding human being.
My precious memory of her will live with me forever

Thank you Princess Diana.