There’ll be a touch of pop royalty in Chelsea this Christmas when Rick Astley leads a glittering line-up at the annual Nordoff and Robbins London Carol Service.

The legendary singer—whose hits, including Never Gonna Give You Up and Together Forever, have sold more than 40 million copies worldwide—will be joined by Katie Melua and Matt Goss for what promises to be one of London’s most magical festive nights.

The candlelit service takes place in the atmospheric, 200-year-old St Luke’s and Christ Church on Sydney Street, where guests will be greeted with mulled wine and mince pies before an evening of music, reflection, and goodwill.

Adding to the seasonal sparkle, multi-award-winning songwriter Cathy Dennis—the creative force behind some of pop’s biggest anthems—will deliver a special Christmas reading. And Carrie and David Grant, vocal coaches and long-time champions of music therapy, will share heartfelt stories about the power of music to connect and heal.

Rick said: ‘I’m thrilled to be performing once again for Nordoff and Robbins at their carol service. I’ve supported this incredible charity for many years, and I’m constantly inspired by the way it uses music to bring joy and healing to people who need it most. This will be a special night full of music, hope and community.’

Since 1997, the charity’s carol services have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for music therapy programmes that support people facing life-limiting illnesses, social isolation, autism, and dementia. The organisation believes passionately in the transformative power of music, and its therapists work every day to help people communicate, express emotion, and rediscover joy.

For Katie Melua, one of Britain’s best-selling female artists, it’s a cause close to her heart. ‘It’s a real honour to be invited to perform at the carol service,’ she said. ‘I have supported this wonderful charity for many years now and continue to be inspired by the way its music therapists use music to help people connect, communicate and find joy in a turbulent world. I’m looking forward to being part of this special evening whilst helping to raise money for this vitally important cause.’

Matt Goss, of 80s super-duo Bros, added: ‘The Nordoff and Robbins Carol Service is a special moment in the festive calendar. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones, sing as loud as you can, and support an amazing charity. Music has a unique way of connecting us all, and the way Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapists break down barriers and give people the freedom to express themselves through music is truly remarkable. It’s going to be a great night.’

Over the years, the event has drawn an illustrious guest list including Sir Rod Stewart, Annie Lennox, Nile Rodgers, Kaiser Chiefs, Katherine Jenkins, and Robbie Williams.

This year’s line-up will be another magical night of music and storytelling, according to Sandy Trappitt, Nordoff and Robbins’ fundraising director. ‘We’re so grateful to have such incredible artists supporting our work—it’s absolutely vital.’

James Watts of event sponsor OVO Energy agreed: ‘We’re honoured to support the Nordoff and Robbins Carol Service for the first time this year, continuing our partnership and building upon our shared belief in the power of music to do good. Evenings like this act as both a vital fundraising opportunity and a time to come together, reflect and enjoy the incomparable experience of live music in such a fantastic venue. We’re delighted to have such an iconic line-up of artists and look forward to welcoming guests to St Luke’s & Christ Church in December.’

The Nordoff and Robbins Christmas Carol Service takes place on Tuesday 9 December 2025 at 7pm at St Luke’s and Christ Church, Sydney Street, SW3 6NH. Tickets are available for £60 via nordoff-robbins.org.uk