Music for Saint Cecilia

From 11th century Gregorian chant to Pärt’s renowned mystic minimalism, the King’s Chorus will perform a stunning repertoire for its annual concert in honour of the patron saint of music. 

The halls will resound with harmony composed for the preeminent cathedrals of Europe. In 1727, Handel’s famous anthem, Zadok the Priest, was composed for the coronation of King George II. This anthem has been performed at Westminster Abbey for every subsequent coronation. Laudate Pueri is Handel’s earliest surviving autograph, transcribed by his own hand when he was twenty-two. In 1770, Mozart composed the Vesperae Solennes de Confessore for the evening mass at Salzburg Cathedral. 

Handel boasts an alluring soprano feature in his Laudate Pueri, which Mozart emulates in his famous Laudate Dominum, one of the most beautiful melodies ever written for a soprano soloist. The King’s Chorus is using this opportunity to showcase its stunning soloist Janelle Lucyk, trained in Brussels and Durham. 

Adhering to its own tradition, the King’s Chorus will honour Saint Cecilia with the Ensemble Regale Orchestra, featuring acclaimed baroque and classical instrumentalists.

With Nick Halley directing, Janelle Lucyk performing, and Ensemble Regale providing the rich orchestral complement, these masterworks will touch your senses and feed your desire. It is not to be missed.