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.
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.
Zadok the Priest is written for SATB chorus and orchestra.
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!
1 Kings 1:38-40
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