| Main Performers | Madame Albani,
Madame Patey,
Mr Charles Banks,
Mr Watkin Mills,
Mr Henschel,
Mr Santley - vocals
Mr Stainer - organ |
| Set List | 'God Save the Queen' (The National Anthem),
'The Golden Legend', Sullivan |
| Royal Presence | HM Queen Victoria,
HRH Prince Christain of Schleswig-Holstein,
HRH Princess Helena, Princess Christian of Schlewig-Holstein,
HRH The Princess Louise, Marchioness of Lorne,
HRH Princess Helen of Waldeck and Pyrmont, Duchess of Albany
HH Princess Helena Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein |
| Performance Notes | "In view of the large audiences which attended the concerts, and the very favourable criticisms of the performance by the Press, the Committee feel justified in regarding the season of 1886-1887 as representing the greatest artistic success which has been achieved by the Society since its formation."
(The Times, 6 October 1887)
"The Queen arrived at 4 o'clock and was warmly cheered on entering the hall, band and chorus simultaneously performing the National Anthem. Her Majesty graciously bowed in acknowledgement of the applause of the audience, and seemed deeply moved by the cordial reception given to her. The sight was indeed a very impressive one. Whatever may be said against the acoustical qualities of the Albert-Hall, it cannot be denied that its imposing dimensions and its fine architecture are eminently adapted to an occasion of this kind. Only a great nation could supply such a hall and fill it with such an audience."
(The Times, 9 May 1888)
"At ½ past 3 went to the Albert Hall, with Lenchen [Princess Helena, Princess Christian of Schlewig-Holstein], Helen [Princess Helen of Waldeck and Pyrmont, Duchess of Albany] and Victoria S H [Princess Helena Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein], Louise [Princess Louise, Marchioness of Lorne, later Duchess of Argyll] and Christian [Prince Christain of Schleswig-Holstein] meeting me there, where Sullivan's "Golden Legend" was most beautifully given. The Hall was very full and it was very hot. The Choir of the Royal Albert Hall Choral Society, sang the choruses. Albani sang exquisitely and the music is lovely. There was a pause between the parts, and at the conclusion, before I left, I spoke to Albani, Mme Patey, Dr Stainer, who presided at the organ, Mr Watkin Mills, Mr Banks, Mr Henschel, and lastly Sir A. Sullivan, whom I complimented very much. There was a great crowd outside, who cheered very much."
(Queen Victoria's Diary, 8 May 1888)
HM Queen Victoria's final visit to the Royal Albert Hall. |
| Related Archival Material | 'Illustrated London News' article |