Along with lyricist, Dr Grahame Davies, Professor Paul Mealor has written the music to what will now become the official hymn of Her Majesty's Royal Air Force.
Professor Mealor’s new hymn, ‘Per ardua ad astra’ (through struggle to the stars) – the motto of the RAF – to new words by Grahame Davies was commissioned by Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force as its official hymn. The RAF have never had an official hymn and have always, in the past, borrowed others. The premiere of the new hymn will take place at Classic FM Live next month (April 11th) at The Royal Albert Hall performed by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Choral Society and the Band of the RAF under the baton of Barry Wordsworth. During the hymn, the RAF Colour Squadron and Ensign will be presented on stage in the presence of the Air Chief Marshall and other senior RAF officers.