In King Charles III’s coronation event, which took place on May 6, Gospel music was included in a British coronation ceremony for the first time in history. The king being a lover of gospel music, requested the inclusion of a gospel choir. Composer Debbie Wiseman wrote the song “Alleluia (O Sing Praises)” for the coronation ceremony, which was initially meant to be performed by the Westminster Abbey Choir. However, the first part of the song was sung by the original choir, while the second part was adapted for the Ascension Choir, led by Abimbola Amoako-Gyampah, who has been “hand-picked by King Charles.” The Ascension Choir also performed at the wedding ceremony of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex which took place at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor.
Premier Christian News reports:
For the first time in British history, the coronation included gospel music – but who were the singers behind the landmark performance?
The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla has maintained many of the traditions of his ancestors. However, the new monarch was keen to ensure the service still represented modern Britain.
It’s believed the King – an avid gospel music fan – specifically requested a gospel choir perform. The song, Alleluia (O Sing Praises), written by composer Debbie Wiseman for the occasion, was originally going to be sung by the Westminster Abbey Choir.
Instead, the first part included the original choir, and the second part was reworked for the Ascension Choir instead, led by Abimbola Amoako-Gyampah.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Wiseman said: “She was hand-picked by King Charles and I was asked to write the music, so I’ve written a special piece for them and we’ve been rehearsing it together.
“It’s the first time a gospel choir has ever performed at a Coronation. It’s fantastic, it will warm everyone’s hearts.”
It’s not the first time the Ascension Choir has taken centre stage at a royal event. The eight performers previously sang at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at St George’s Chapel in Windsor as part of the Kingdom Choir.
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