King Charles III’s coronation: 5 sacred songs that will be performed

'Zadok the Priest'

Originally composed in 1727 by Georg Frideric Handel for the coronation of King George II, “Zadok the Priest” has been sung at every English Coronation since then, including that of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. It will be sung during the anointing, where Charles will receive the coronation oil. 

The lyrics are derived from the Bible, specifically 1 Kings 1:38-48, which describes the anointing of Solomon as king of ancient Israel, to succeed his father David.

“Since Handel composed the piece, it’s been a perennial favorite (it’s actually the first piece we ever broadcast on Classic FM), and it’s perhaps best known nowadays as the inspiration for the UEFA Champions League Anthem,” noted Classic FM.

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