Carol singing has been part of The King’s School for more than 150 years, and with the Festival of Lessons and Carols this Sunday, we reflect on a figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the School’s choral tradition.
James Mackay-Sim, who joined King’s in 1985 as Choirmaster and became Director of Music the following year, shaped an entire generation of singers. Under his patient, expert and good-humoured leadership, the Choir became the School’s musical flagship. James’ days famously began before 7.00am – teaching piano, leading hymn practice, rehearsing ensembles and guiding boys with fairness, kindness and unwavering dedication.
He directed rehearsals late into the evenings, organised concerts, brought specialist musicians to campus and led music tours across New Zealand and regional Australia. He was admired for his “civilised approach,” his advocacy for boys’ welfare, and his deep commitment to giving every student the chance to experience the transformative power of music. By the time he retired in 2003, he had enriched the musical lives of “hundreds, probably thousands” of boys.
James greatly contributed to the choral strength that continues to define King’s today. And each December, as the Festival of Lessons and Carols fills the School with music, his legacy lives on in every voice raised, every tradition upheld and every boy who learns the joy of singing.
Image (above): James Mackay-Sim directs the School Choir in the Memorial Chapel.