‘Happy Birthday Captain Tom’ – Hampshire County Council’s Music Service's virtual tribute

Captain Tom, as he has become affectionately known, walked 100 laps around his garden in recognition of his 100th birthday which he celebrates tomorrow (April 30). Nearly 1.4 million people have donated to his JustGiving page.

In recognition of his remarkable efforts, a willing band of 84 singers and musicians have compiled a virtual musical tribute to the World War Two veteran.

Created by Hampshire County Council’s Music Service, choir members, instrumentalists and singers recorded their own individual components at home which have been compiled together into one performance. The production included contributions from Music Service teaching staff and children from the Hampshire County Youth Choir.

The music video, which is to be shared on social media from tomorrow (April 30), features a performance of The Wellesley March – the regimental march of the Duke of Wellington’s regiment of which Captain Tom was a member. In recognition of the centenarian, the virtual choir breaks into a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ and ‘For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow’.

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Councillor Roz Chadd, executive member for Education and Skills, commented: ‘This musical tribute is a lovely idea and I am sure Captain Tom and his family will appreciate the gesture and good wishes that it conveys.

‘We are very proud of our Music Service and the talented orchestral, brass, choral and other music ensembles which provide opportunities for Hampshire’s children and young people to grow in confidence in their musical abilities and performance skills.’

‘Happy Birthday Captain Tom’ can be viewed on the Hampshire Music Service Facebook page from tomorrow morning at 9am.

The tribute is not Captain Tom’s first musical success. Earlier this month he also became the oldest person to claim the UK No 1 spot with his cover of You’ll Never Walk Alone, in collaboration with Michael Ball and the NHS Voices of Care choir.

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