In Time to Declare: My Life in Church Music, Martin Neary offers us an extraordinary journey through his life in music – a journey rich in artistry and rich in personal and historical significance. From his own early days as chorister at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II to his role directing the music in Westminster Abbey at the funeral of Princess Diana, Martin’s career has unfolded alongside some of the most profound moments in modern British history. This book is a testament to the power of music to elevate and move, to unite and ennoble. It is a reminder that great traditions such as choral music do not look after themselves. For future generations to enjoy and enrich this tradition, each generation must labour after excellence, and that labour will require leaders of the stature of Martin Neary.