Paul is absolutely delighted to have been asked by The King to write a new work for The Coronation of Their Majesty’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla next month in Westminster Abbey.
Paul Mealor’s ‘Coronation Kyrie’ marks the first Welsh language performance at a Coronation, to be sung by bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel and the Choir of Westminster Abbey. On the inspiration for his composition, Mealor said:
It is a meditative, introspective piece based on a blend between Gregorian chant and ‘Cerdd Dant’ (Welsh Penillion singing – an important part of eisteddfodau). I was inspired by the great Welsh tunes– Aberystwyth, Cwm Rhondda, Ar Lan Y Môr – and the composition is coloured by the harmonies of these songs. It is a cry from the deep soul of the hills and valleys of Wales for hope, peace, love and friendship.