Zadok the Priest

Zadok the Priest is a coronation anthem composed by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759) using texts from the King James Bible. The texts were picked by Handel himself, although they have been part of the traditional content of British coronations. It is believed that Handel made a personal selection of the most accessible account of an earlier coronation, that of James II of England in 1685. Though the text derives from the biblical account of the anointing of Solomon, it is not a direct quote, but a paraphrase, possibly by the composer himself.

It is one of the coronation anthems that Handel composed for the coronation of George II in 1727. Zadok the Priest has been sung at every British coronation service since its appearance. Zadok the Priest is used for the anointing part of the coronation.

Handel composed 3 other coronation anthems. They are: The King Shall Rejoice, My Heart is Inditing and Let thy Hand be Strengthened

Zadok the Priest is written for SATB chorus and orchestra.

The anthem of the UEFA Champions League, which introduces worldwide television coverage of the event and is played during pregame ceremonies at each match, is based on this composition.

The text of Zadok the Priest
Zadok the Priest and Nathan the Prophet anointed Solomon King.
And all the people rejoic'd, and said:
God save the King, long live the King, may the King live for ever!
Amen Alleuia!

after 1 Kings 1:38–40

External link

• The Coronation of King George II: sleeve notes from Hyperion recording