This recording features a Mander's 'Aquarium' chamber organ, which is vibrant blue in colour, as a substitute for an organ specially constructed for the occasion.
Historical Context
Handel's Coronation Anthems were composed for the coronation of King George II and Queen Caroline in Westminster Abbey on October 11, 1727.
Performer Biography
The Sixteen, comprising both choir and period instrument orchestra, is recognized as one of the world's greatest ensembles and has won many awards for its over one hundred recordings.
Compositional Technique
Handel's Coronation Anthems were among the first pieces of English church music to include timpani in an orchestra of trumpets, woodwind, and strings.
Composition History
Despite Maurice Greene being the newly-appointed Chapel Royal composer, King George III later noted that the King himself insisted Handel provide the anthems for the 1727 coronation.
Performer Biography
Harry Christophers, the founder and conductor of The Sixteen, was appointed Artistic Director of Boston's Handel and Haydn Society in 2008.
Composer Biography
Handel became a British subject by naturalisation in February 1727, and had been given a court title as Composer for the Chapel Royal in 1723.
