Zadok the Priest
At a Glance
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Composed
1727 -
Length
c. 5 minutes
About this Piece
Handel composed Zadok the Priest for King George II’s coronation in 1727. It has since been established as a standard anthem in the English repertoire, having been performed at every subsequent coronation ceremony. The text, chosen by Handel himself, draws upon the biblical account of King Solomon being anointed by the prophet Nathan and Zadok, who served as high priest of Israel during the reigns of both Solomon and his father David. The anthem concludes with words of general rejoicing for the new king.
-David Fick
