Clive Bibby
Nothing compares with music or a beautiful sound given life by a gifted singer in times when we seek inspiration from a world that appears to offer none.
While many will have taken other special moments from King Charles’ coronation — for me, it was the South African soprano Pretty Yende singing Sacred Fire who stole the show. Her performance was beautifully executed and went a long way towards restoring my waning support in the monarchy. Others may have viewed it similarly. I hope so.
I was reminded of one of Charles’ predecessors, King George lll, who has historically been rather unfairly portrayed as “Mad King George” when in fact a proper reading of history suggests he was not only one of the longest reigning British monarchs, but also apparently loved by his loyal subjects — something achieved by few of those who either preceded or followed him; the late Queen Elizabeth II and her Dad, King George VI, being two of the obvious exceptions.
Legend has it that King George III became so moved by a rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” that he rose and stood to attention until the performance was completed. Therein lies the background to the current practice of the audience standing during the playing of that important part of “the Messiah”.
It is somewhat irrelevant whether we believe that God inspired or gifted the writers and performers of these magnificent works — but it cannot be denied that they bring so many emotionally charged moments of joy to those lucky enough to witness the delivery.
And fortunately for the millions watching the latest coronation on TV at home or on the big screens in pubs, bars, clubs or parks — we could all benefit from sharing it in our own way.
Such is the madness that surrounds our everyday existence, it is hard to remember the last time l felt so emotionally overwhelmed by a single, short-lived event.
It is perhaps a reflection of the times that we, as the most intelligent species on the planet, have become so weighed down by the problems associated with daily living that we must turn to some timeless inspirational experience as a panacea for our woes.
Sure, we get temporarily distracted by what happens on the scoreboard at sporting contests during the weekends, but that is over in a moment and we are left to anticipate the excitement that might be generated by the next event.
With only a few exceptions, nothing has the capacity to leave us with a lasting feeling of warmth and gratitude for having had the privilege of being there when it happened.
That is why I find the writing and performance of music is one of those rare human qualities that will have a lasting influence on how we adjust to the pressures of daily living.
It is the solace that can, even fleetingly, take us out of ourselves to a place where anything is possible and we feel no pain.
For those who missed it, you can enjoy Pretty Yende’s performance here on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/Ar7HGBg5o3k