Harkening to Handel: The Blues of Coronation

to the Past

Introduction

George Frideric Handel’s „Coronation Anthems“ were composed in 1727 for the coronation of King George II and Queen Caroline. The four anthems, „Zadok the Priest,“ „Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened,“ „The King Shall Rejoice,“ and „My Heart Is Inditing,“ have since become a staple of British royal ceremonies. However, the origins of the anthems can be traced back to Handel’s earlier works, particularly his „Chandos Anthems.“

Handel’s Chandos Anthems

Handel composed the „Chandos Anthems“ between 1717 and 1718 for James Brydges, the first Duke of Chandos. The anthems were written for the Duke’s private chapel at his estate in Cannons, and were likely performed by a small choir and orchestra. The anthems were not intended for public performance, but rather for private worship.

The „Chandos Anthems“ were composed in a similar style to Handel’s later „Coronation Anthems,“ with grand choral sections and intricate instrumental accompaniment. The anthems also featured solo sections, which allowed Handel to showcase the talents of individual singers. The anthems were well-received by the Duke and his guests, and were likely performed regularly at Cannons.

The Coronation Anthems

When Handel was commissioned to compose the „Coronation Anthems“ for King George II and Queen Caroline, he drew heavily from his earlier „Chandos Anthems.“ The anthems share many similarities, including the use of grand choral sections and intricate instrumental accompaniment. However, the „Coronation Anthems“ were composed on a much larger scale, with a larger choir and orchestra.

The most famous of the „Coronation Anthems“ is „Zadok the Priest,“ which has been performed at every British coronation since its premiere in 1727. The anthem begins with a fanfare of trumpets and drums, followed by a grand choral section. The anthem’s text is taken from the biblical story of King Solomon’s anointing, and the music reflects the grandeur of the occasion.

Despite their popularity, the „Coronation Anthems“ were not without controversy. Some critics felt that the anthems were too grandiose and lacked the simplicity of earlier English music. However, the anthems have endured over the centuries, and continue to be performed at royal ceremonies and concerts around the world.

Conclusion

Handel’s „Coronation Anthems“ are a testament to his skill as a composer and his ability to adapt his style to suit different occasions. The anthems draw heavily from Handel’s earlier „Chandos Anthems,“ but are composed on a much grander scale. The anthems have become a staple of British royal ceremonies, and continue to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world

Original article Teaser

Coronation Blues: Handel Hearkens

George Frideric Handel memorial, Westminster Abbey. Louis Robilliac, 1762. Not only the living were listening in Westminster Abbey last Saturday. The dead heard the music too. Among the legion of once famous, wealthy, and powerful entombed there, none was bigger of girth and of glory than George Frideric Handel. All through the coronation, Handel’s statue cocked a curious ear and occasionally wagged a disapproving marble finger at the sonic goings-on. In his last years Handel was blind, but from his perch on the transept wall his stone effigy had a good view of the procession and King Charles as he slouched down the nave towards the high altar and the goal of his already long life. Did the Handelian foot

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