After Brooke’s performance, Prince William applauded and said with a self-effacing laugh: ‘That’s why you play, and I don’t.’ The father-of-three then lamented his own lack of musical aptitude, and how he and the Princess of Wales are ensuring that their young children are able to enjoy playing an instrument. ‘I wish I started when I was your age,’ William said to Brooke. ‘I couldn’t read music, so that was my biggest weakness. I started off playing piano, trumpet and the drums, and then realised I had to memorise every tune and it just fell away.
‘I make sure my children learn music, because I love music, and it’s crucial – really important.’
By the sounds of things, the young Wales children have been turning into virtuosos. Prince William previously spoke of Prince Louis’ (rather loud) passion for the drums during the Tusk Awards in November 2024, telling Rolling Stones bassist Ronnie Wood: ‘My youngest is learning the drums. That’s why I spend my entire life with my fingers in my ears.’
Perhaps it is Catherine’s influence that has guided George, Charlotte and Louis in their musical endeavours. After all, the Princess of Wales is a gifted pianist. The future queen revealed her talent during the inaugural ‘Together at Christmas’ carol concert in 2021, accompanying the singer Tom Walker on the ivories during the service.
