Eminence grise
The Scholars of Westminster School have a very old privilege that gives them the honour of greeting the Sovereign first. This is the celebrated 'Vivat'.
For centuries, they were shouted from the triforium until Parry came up with the bright idea of incorporating them into the text of the traditional Processional: 'I was glad when they said unto me...' Since 1902, a whole section of music has been dropped into the middle of this anthem and the Scholars attempt to sing their welcome before the whole musical forces take it up.
In 1953, it was straight-forward: 'Vivat Regina Elizabetha, etc...'
However, at the coronation of a married king, his queen is greeted first as her procession arrives, then the king himself as his procession enters. Rather than remaining in deafening silence in 1937 until the King made his appearance (that moment between 'Vivat Regina Elizabetha, etc...' and 'Vivat Rex Georgius, etc...'), the organ and orchestra performed a prepared improvisation, which was just awful and must have had Parry spinning in his grave!
1
Responses
Responses are not allowed!