The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) is proud to be supporting the Coronation Service of Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort at Westminster Abbey, London, on Saturday 6th May 2023.
Musicians from the RPO will form an integral part of the Coronation Orchestra, which will comprise some of the world’s most respected orchestral musicians, drawn from ensembles with which His Majesty has a strong connection. In addition, the RPO’s Managing Director, James Williams, is one of two music advisers supporting His Majesty’s staff in the preparation of all the musical elements of the Coronation Service.
The Coronation Service will feature 12 new compositions. Six of the new commissions have been composed for orchestra and will be performed prior to Their Majesties’ arrival at the Abbey, complemented by a programme of mainly British music spanning 350 years.
James Williams, Managing Director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra comments: “The Coronation of King Charles III presents us with an historic moment to celebrate the start of a new area. His Majesty has overseen and influenced the detail of the music programme and has been personally involved in the commissioning process. 6th May will be an opportunity for the arts community at large to celebrate a new monarch who is a life-long champion of culture in the UK, and its positive role in enriching and unifying society.”