Music and Ceremonial at British Coronations

British coronations, the grandest state occasions, have been shaped significantly by music, a role that has remained consistent from 1603 to the present. This comprehensive study reconstructs the musical programs of sixteen English and two Scottish coronations held in Westminster Abbey, uncovering newly discovered primary sources that reveal performance practices and historical contexts. The research demonstrates how ceremonial requirements influenced the structure and execution of music, providing fresh insights into these traditions. By placing these ceremonies within their political backdrop and examining the concept of 'invented traditions,' the study offers a multifaceted understanding of coronation rituals. It serves as an invaluable resource for musicologists, historians, and performers alike.

Range, M. (2012). Music and Ceremonial at British Coronations. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9781139151191