Jersey Choir Finalist Recounts “Amazing” Experience and Baking for Vicar

A finalist from Jersey in BBC Songs of Praise characterized her experience as “amazing.” Although she did not win Young Chorister of the Year, Rubie, 14, from St Helier, stated she received mentorship from Aled Jones and was interviewed by Kate Bottley, a Church of England vicar. Rubie also shared that she prepared the island delicacy, Jersey Wonders, for Ms. Bottley, who “liked” them. She explained, “They asked us to bring something that is special to us, and I like baking and cooking.” Rubie further elaborated, “I made some Jersey Wonders [savoury doughnut] for Kate and she liked them, which is good.” Rubie, who performed What Child Is This in the final, mentioned meeting “so many amazing people,” including fellow contestants and individuals involved in the competition. She stated: “All of the other contestants are so nice. They all had the same ideas as me and we were all like-minded.” She also clarified that attending church and worshipping contributed to her singing and faith development. Her ultimate aspiration, she noted, is to become a professional singer. Her mother, Joy, commented on Rubie’s determination, stating: “Rubie is very self-driven. She is motivated in herself and, if she wants something, she really works hard to achieve it.“ Joy also affirmed the family’s commitment: “Me and my husband will do everything we can to support her. Obviously, she has a lot of support from her teachers and other people.” Joy further shared her family’s musical background: “I used to sing when I was very young… music is a part of us. My husband is very musical and my son as well.“ She concluded by expressing their collective passion: “We adore music, we love it.” The final episode is available for viewing on BBC IPlayer. Updates from BBC Jersey can be followed on X and Facebook. Story ideas can be submitted to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites and advises reading about its approach to external linking.