Handel’s Zadok the Priest was originally composed for the coronation of King George II. Its unparalleled instrumental introduction, lasting a minute and a quarter, builds up a tension – rising and falling by stages – which leads inexorably to the entry of the choir, a dazzling moment (dare I say it) somewhat evoking the impact of a nuclear explosion.
Thanks to the initiative of Fr. Hugh and the generous donation of Nicholas Edmiston, we were able to perform this masterpiece with a professional instrumental and vocal ensemble during Evensong to celebrate the King’s Accession Anniversary, on Tuesday the 8th of September.
In addition, the truly homegrown St. Paul’s Hymn (words by Russell Crump, tune by Errol Girdlestone) saw the first light of day, so in many ways it was a rather unique occasion.
The Canticles were sung to the setting by Thomas Attwood Walmisley (1814-1856), in an orchestration by Errol, with Preces and Responses by William Smith of Durham (1603-1645) and the the service was both preceded and rounded off by items from Handel’s Water Music, composed at the request of King George I.
Hopefully, a fittingly regal occasion.
