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Bishop Baker issues apology for shutting down choir concert

Bishop Jonathan Baker regrets disrupting a summer choir concert at St Andrew church.

August 1, 2025 at 03:16 PM
blur Bishop who shut down London choir in his dressing gown issues apology

Bishop Jonathan Baker expresses regret after ending a choir concert early in an unusual manner.

Bishop of Fulham apologizes for abrupt choir shutdown

Bishop Jonathan Baker of Fulham has issued an apology following his unexpected decision to halt a choir performance at St Andrew church in Holborn, London. During the City Academy Voices choir's summer concert last Friday, Baker, dressed in a blue dressing gown, interrupted the event shortly after 10pm, calling the choir's music a 'terrible racket' and insisting attendees leave. The choir had been booked until 11pm, a fact Baker acknowledged in his apology, which expressed remorse for the 'distress and offence' caused and emphasized that such incidents would not be repeated in the future.

Key Takeaways

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Bishop Baker's apology acknowledges his mistake in shutting down the choir concert.
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The choir had a booking until 11pm, contradicting the bishop's actions.
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Baker's remarks about the singing have sparked public criticism.
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Despite the abrupt end, the choir managed to perform their final song a cappella.
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The incident may reflect underlying tensions in community authority.
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Baker assures that similar events will not happen again.

"I take full responsibility and apologise unreservedly."

Bishop Baker acknowledges his role in the incident and the need to apologize.

"It was an odd experience. I never thought a bishop would be the reason I didn’t have a solo."

Raj Swamy shares his surprise at the bishop's actions impacting his performance.

"It’s a real shame that we didn’t get a chance to finish."

Leigh Stanford Thompson reflects on the unusual end to the concert.

"You are in my house, can you leave it now please."

Baker's demand sparked immediate backlash from concert attendees.

This incident highlights tensions between authority and creative expression in community settings. While Bishop Baker’s role as a church leader carries certain expectations, interrupting a performance in such a dramatic fashion raises questions about respect for artistic endeavors. The choir's ability to adapt and perform an impromptu a cappella version of their final song demonstrates resilience. However, the disconnect between the event's intent and the bishop’s abrupt handling may lead to larger discussions about community relationships and the role of church leadership in local culture.

Highlights

  • A dressing gown is not the outfit for choir management.
  • A terrible racket disrupted the peace at St Andrew church.
  • Bishops should support, not silence, community voices.
  • When the lights go out, creativity finds a way.

Sensitivity over church authority and community events

The abrupt intervention by Bishop Baker has raised concerns about authority figures disrupting community arts events. This situation may lead to backlash from local community members and artists who feel disrespected by the church's actions.

This incident may serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between authority and community spirit.

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