Guy Barker’s Big Band Christmas-Royal Albert Hall.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of Guy Barker’s Big Band Christmas concert at The Royal Albert Hall. Decorated in traditional Christmas decorations from beautiful Christmas trees at the back of the staged area to the festive garlands all around the outside of the boxes in the concert area.

This year’s Big Band concert saw Guy joined on the festive stage with a host of incredible special guests Clare Teal, Clarke Peters, Vanessa Haynes, Giacomo Smith, Joe Stilgoe, Naomi Banks and Tommy Blaize.

Claire Teal compares the evening’s entertainment alongside Barker. Teal introduces each of the special guests onto the stage. Barker and Teal have a strong rapport and after ten years working together the evening runs like clockwork. If there were any minor mishaps I didn’t personally notice any.

Each of the guests brought their own festive touch to their performances. From Jingle Bells to Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas there’s something for everyone and plenty of recognisable Christmas songs to enjoy and sing along to if you wish.

I especially enjoyed the performances delivered by Clarke Peters. Much to my embarrassment I had never heard of him before and have since checked out his music on YouTube.

I can highly recommend catching the Big Band Christmas Concert in 2026. It certainly captures the essence of what Christmas celebrations are about, singing, coming together, and enjoying living in the moment.