Customer Reviews

The Coronation of King George II / The King's Consort · Robert King

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Well, this is just fascinating! Absolutely fascinating! (Sorry for repeating myself, it's a point that I just cannot seem to stress enough!! lol)

Of course, I'm a little biased too, towards the content of this compilation (being a monarchist), yet the musical and historical value of such a recording cannot be effectively conveyed in words. I will admit that I am only vaguely familiar with the sound of the king's consort choir and orchestra, but as they say, first impressions last, and this was a great first impression.

I am usually quite partial to the recordings of the King's college choir, but the King's consort choir has certainly proved an unbelieveable equality to me, with little of the usual vibrato in the high soprano lines, that tend to get on my nerves.

Of particular interest, are the coronation anthems, that Handel actually composed for the purpose of this very coronation. They are all wonderfully portrayed in all their splendour and grandeur, and yes, with a blaze of Handelian glory. They are all enjoyable to listen to, with the typical lyricism and melodious writings of Handels pen.

More unfamiliar, are anthems composed for earlier coronations and incorporated into the service for King George II. This is a great insight to the earlier styles of the renaissance anthem writing. At times they do seem to anticipate choral masterpieces of a later 'baroque' generation.

I must urge all to try this recording, and experience the pomp and ceremony of the crowning of the British Monarch.