London Vegetable Orchestra still thriving after jam with King Charles III

The London Vegetable Orchestra turned heads at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, performing live using instruments entirely crafted from fresh vegetables and fruit. Bystanders were both surprised and delighted as melodies poured out from carrot recorders, courgette trumpets, and pepper shakers—blending horticulture and harmony in a uniquely organic performance.

The orchestra has recently enjoyed a surge in popularity following a viral jam session with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace in April. The video, which showed the monarch playfully joining in with a carrot recorder, captured hearts worldwide and brought widespread attention to the ensemble’s eco-friendly innovation.

Known for promoting sustainability and creativity, the group aims to challenge traditional perceptions of both music and food. Their appearance at the prestigious garden festival reinforced their mission of merging art, environment, and community in unexpected ways—one vegetable at a time. The performance ended with cheers—and a few nibbled instruments.