Even royals have hidden talents that are occasionally unearthed during their official duties. If there is one royal with a truly niche skill, it is King Charles.
One engagement in particular revealed his surprising vegetable musical talents, involving a fresh carrot...
Musical carrots
His Majesty hosted a special community music reception at Windsor Castle that quickly caught the attention of royal watchers. The celebration was hosted by the King alongside the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester to recognise the vital importance of community music.
In a series of photos and videos from the evening, Charles was filmed playing a rendition of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star on a carrot, crafted by the London Vegetable Orchestra.
If you are wondering how one plays a carrot, the orchestra hand-carves playable flutes and recorders out of fresh produce, which allowed the King to test out his woodwind skills to the room's delight.
One admirer penned: "If ever something was to bring a smile to my face EVER, it would be King Charles playing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star on a carrot with a band of veggie-instrument-playing musicians. Truly iconic!"
"It's good to see the King in good health and enjoying himself around his people," another commented. Meanwhile, a third posted: "The King playing a carrot has put the biggest smile on my face. Great to see him so jolly."
For royal admirers, seeing the monarch in such high spirits carried an even deeper meaning following a challenging period for his health. The event, which was held in April 2025, came just a week after he was hospitalised due to temporary side effects from his cancer treatment.
King Charles' other talents
© Tim GrahamPlaying a well-known nursery rhyme isn’t the King’s only talent. He is an avid and accomplished watercolor painter who mostly focuses on landscapes, with his prints having raised millions of pounds over the years.
His Majesty is incredibly adept across a wide range of musical instruments, too. In his youth, he learned to play multiple instruments and even performed with the Trinity College, Cambridge orchestra.
What is the latest update on the King's health?
© Getty ImagesAs royal watchers know, the 77-year-old monarch has faced health challenges since February 2024, when Buckingham Palace announced he had been diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer.
Receiving medical treatment while balancing a full schedule of public duties sounds undeniably exhausting, which makes the King's public appearances even sweeter and more treasured knowing what he is going through.
The King has maintained a busy schedule of public engagements this year, using his platform to speak openly about cancer following his diagnosis. Alongside sharing a message in support of Stand Up To Cancer in December 2025, he praised Macmillan Cancer Support in May 2026, describing the charity's work as "amazing".
