To mark the Coronation of King Charles III, we have brought together the most famous pieces of music from the coronations of James II in 1685 and George II in 1727. The masterpieces by Purcell and Handel display an extraordinarily evocative force that is marvellously well-suited to the choir and the Orchestra of the Opéra Royal directed by Gaétan Jarry.

Of the most noteworthy ceremonies of European monarchies in the pre-Revolutionary period, coronations were certainly the most symbolic and opulent, followed in terms of musical intensity by the royal weddings and funerals. The best music since the mid-17th century has been preserved for the English monarchy, with the most sumptuous ceremonial music in the Anglican sacred repertoire.

This Grand Style was a majestic tribute to the Coronation Ceremony of England, with drum-rolls and glorious fanfares of trumpets announcing the acclamations of Westminster. God Save the King!

The Productions of the Royal Opera

Coronation anthems by Handel & Purcell

Henry Purcell (1659-1695)

My Heart Is Inditing, Z. 30

I Was Glad, psaume 122

Georg Friedrich Haendel (1685-1759)

Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened, HWV 259

Zadok The Priest, HWV 258

The King Shall Rejoice, HWV 260

My Heart Is Inditing, HWV 261

Salomon HWV 67 : Acte III « Praise the Lord »