It’s Coronation Day!

Royal harpist Alis Huws performed at the May 6, 2023 coronation of King Charles III, and his wife Camilla. To celebrate this momentous occasion, we’ve pulled out the best stately solos from Harp Column Music that have a ceremonious feel.

(Titles marked with an * are playable on lever harp.)

*Be Thou My Vision

arr. Lauren Scott

If you watched the live coronation ceremony, you may have heard the performance of this beloved, traditional Irish hymn. Fit for all occasions, Lauren Scott’s version is gently arranged with flowing arpeggios and space to play with the musicality of the melody. 

*March of the Men of Harlech

arrr. Meinir Heulyn

This traditional Welsh folk song is perfect for ceremonious occasions! Heulyn’s arrangement uses four-part harmony plus large chords and octaves to bring a lot of vivacious sound to the tune. 

*Stella’s Trip to Kamloops

arr. Shoshanna Godber

There’s something about a march that is perfect for ceremonious occasions. This joyful tune by Nova Scotian composer Pat Chafe is a cheerful march sure to bring a smile to both the listener and performer.

*Variations on Tallis’ Canon

arr. Lucy Bunce

I think there’s something about a theme and variations piece, too, that really fits with the ceremonious feel. This stately Renaissance theme by composer Thomas Tallis works perfectly in five variations using different rhythms and meters. 

*Trumpet Voluntary

arr. Louise Trotter

Is there anything more ceremonious than a trumpet entrance? I think not! Jeremiah Clarke’s classic work (although not technically for trumpets) is the perfect way to conclude a ceremonious occasion!

You simply cannot have a list of ceremonious music fit for coronation day without including compositions by George Frideric Handel and Antonio Lucio Vivaldi. Check out these beloved melodies perfect for ceremonious occasions:

*The Harmonious Blacksmith

Handel / arr. Rylee Livingston

Alla Hornpipe

Handel / arr. Stephanie Bennett

*Arrival of the Queen of Sheba

Handel / arr. Katherine Thomas

Concerto in F Major

Vivaldi & Bach / arr. Angela Klöhn

*Theme from ‘Spring’

Vivaldi / arr. Tamsin Dearnley