Posted by: Janice Manchee
When Rideau Chorale selected Handel’s Coronation Anthems for their spring concert, they had no idea that monarchy might be the future of our neighbour to the south. But, like much classical music, these stirring and beautiful pieces were composed in a time when monarchy was the dominant form of government.
“Handel was born in Germany,” says Rideau Chorale Music Director Kevin Reeves, “but he relocated to Britain and was declared a naturalized citizen by George I just prior to his death in 1727. It’s fitting Handel wrote the anthems for the coronation of George’s son.”
Handel’s four anthems were introduced at the coronation of George II and Caroline, his queen. They drew from some of the texts used in previous British coronations dating back to that of King Edgar in 973.
The Coronation Anthems are made up of four separate motets (choral compositions) highlighting the events of a coronation.
Zadok the Priest celebrates the recognition by God and the church of the heir. Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened underlines the individual as the rightful heir to the throne. The King Shall Rejoice is sung during the crowning. Finally, My Heart is Inditing celebrates the anointing and crowning of the queen. “Inditing” is an old-fashioned way of saying that someone feels strongly inspired to express their thoughts or feelings.
“The Anthems contain dance-like and celebratory music,” says Reeves. “But they also clearly address the serious nature of confirming the nation’s leader.”
These Anthems were popular right from the beginning during Handel’s lifetime. Because of the grandeur of a coronation, many singers and musicians were involved and this contributed to Handel’s image as a composer who required a crowd of performers. or, as Hector Berlioz described it, “a barrel of pork and beer.”
In fact, Handel tailored his compositions for the audience and venue. Rideau Chorale will be featuring Mathew Larkin on organ, Travis Mandel leading the trumpets and Zac Pulak on timpani.
Rideau Chorale will perform three additional pieces by Handel. Two are from his oratorio Samson, which was composed directly after he completed The Messiah and first performed in 1743. Music, Spread Thy Voice Around is a sweet and lulling piece, while Awake the Trumpet’s Lofty Sound is energetic and stirring.
The third piece, See, The Conquering Hero Comes, is from Handel’s oratorio Judas Maccabaeus. The oratorio tells the story of how Judaism was saved through the heroic efforts of Judas Maccabaeus and others. This story is the foundation for the festivities of Hanukkah.
Rideau Chorale is also welcoming Soprano Ania Hejnar and Countertenor Mark Donnelly. Hejnar will sing Handel’s love song Let the Bright Seraphim.
“It truly is a festival of Handel,” says Reeves. “We are delighted to share this music with our community.
Rideau Chorale’s Handelfest will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Southminster United Church beginning at 7:30pm. Doors open at 7pm.
Information about Rideau Chorale and its upcoming performances (including livestream details) can be found at rideauchorale.com. Tickets are available on zeffy.com/ticketing/handelfest.
Janice Manchee sings tenor with Rideau Chorale.
Featured in the April 2025 OSCAR.