BAROQUE MUSIC
Part 2 (c. 1600–1750)
1. Zadok the Priest (G.F. Handel)
Zadok the Priest (HWV 258) is a coronation anthem by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759), written for the coronation of King George II in 1727. It is one of four coronation anthems and has been performed at every British coronation since, traditionally during the monarch’s anointing. The text is based on the biblical account of the anointing of King Solomon (1 Kings 1:38–40), originally used in medieval coronation liturgy. The piece is known for its gradual orchestral buildup and sudden choral entrance, creating a strong ceremonial impact. It was later adapted in 1992 by Tony Britten as the basis for the UEFA Champions League Anthem.
2. Sonata in D Minor, K. 32 (D. Scarlatti )
Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti (1685–1757) wrote 555 solo keyboard sonatas during his career. Although these works were not widely known in his lifetime, they are now recognized as an important contribution to keyboard music. In Scarlatti’s time, the sonatas were mainly performed on the harpsichord. At the Spanish royal court, early versions of the piano (the fortepiano), developed by Bartolomeo Cristofori, were also available. Today, Scarlatti’s sonatas can be performed on harpsichord, fortepiano, or modern piano.
3. Winter-Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
Antonio Vivaldi (1678–1741) was an Italian composer of the early 18th century, active mainly in Venice and Mantua. Winter is one of the four violin concertos from The Four Seasons. Vivaldi composed them around 1718–1723, and they were published in 1725 in Amsterdam. These works are among his most famous and show his ability to create musical imagery and narrative. Winter portrays cold weather, icy winds, and the contrast of warmth and shelter. Vivaldi was known for his violin writing and for depicting nature and everyday life in music. The Four Seasons is a key example, reflecting both the intensity and simplicity of each season.
5. “Hallelujah” from Messiah (G.F. Handel)
Messiah (HWV 56) is an English-language oratorio composed in 1741 by George Frideric Handel (1685–1759). The text was compiled by Charles Jennens, who selected and arranged biblical passages from the King James Bible and the Coverdale Psalter. It was first performed in Dublin in 1742 and in London the following year. The work is divided into three parts: Part I covers Old Testament prophecies and the birth of Christ, Part II focuses on the Passion and ends with the “Hallelujah” chorus, and Part III reflects on the resurrection and glorification of Christ.
6. Badinerie (J.S. Bach)
Badinerie is the lively final movement of Orchestral Suite No. 2 in B minor (BWV 1067) by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750). Written in the late Baroque period, the suite follows the French ouverture style, combining a grand opening with a series of dance-inspired movements.
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