Choral works for various ceremonies and celebrations of the British monarchy by English composers from various periods
Vocal sextet The King’s Singers have been at the forefront of a cappella singing for more than five decades. The group is renowned for its unparalleled vocal technique, musicality and versatility, which is reflected in its unique repertoire and collaborations with other luminaries of the music world. The King’s Singers’ biography includes many prestigious awards, such as two Grammys, an Emmy and an induction into the Gramophone Hall of Fame. Whatever they sing, these performers are always recognisable by their clear intonation, impeccable vocal harmonies, perfect articulation and incredible precision.
The King’s Singers’ latest programme Long Live the King! was designed to celebrate the accession of King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland as well as Queen Elizabeth II’s contribution to the country’s history. Music has been at the heart of all celebrations of the British monarchy for more than 500 years, and much of the finest British choral music has been composed specifically for the religious ceremonies and celebrations of the royal family.
The concert programme takes the listener through the history of British monarchs and choral music in stages. The first is a dedication to Queen Elizabeth I, set to madrigals by Renaissance composers from the collection The Triumphs of Oriana, which glorifies the monarch referred to as Oriana in the texts of the madrigals. The second features opuses by British Renaissance composers for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and a motet by 20th-century composer Ralph Vaughan Williams, written especially for the occasion. The third is a tribute to the Queen by contemporary British composers. The fourth features works by Renaissance and modern British composers performed at the funeral of Elizabeth II. The fifth, celebrating the accession of King Charles III, features Renaissance and modern compositions on liturgical texts. This musical journey concludes with a witty musical reflection on the history of British monarchs.
The festival organisers:
Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society, PI “Vilniaus festivaliai”, Vilnius City Municipality
