Mini Analysis: Zadok The Priest (Dynamics)

Work: ‘Zadok The Priest’
Composers/Creators: George Frederic Handel
Performers: Trevor Pinnock, Simon Preston & the Choir of Westminster Abbey
Album: Choir of Westminster Abbey – Great Recordings (Deutsche Grammophon, 1982)

Listen to this excerpt and describe the character or mood of this performance.

Is the character consistent, or does it change throughout the excerpt? For instance, I felt that it was more meditative at the beginning, before becoming regal, majestic and powerful when the voices entered.

As you listen again, also consider the dynamics choices made by the performers. Does the performers’ choice of dynamics impact the overall character or mood of this excerpt?

Listen again? Replay from the start as many times as you like! Here are some suggested answers…

The excerpt begins pianissimo with strings playing repetitive arpeggios over some longer notes in the wind instruments, creating a meditative (almost serene) character.

As the excerpt progressed it begins to consistently but dramatically become louder (crescendos) until it reaches a full fortissimo dynamic at the climax when the choir enters with long notes (anthem-like) also at fortissimo) changing the character quite dramatically to being regal and majestic.

The rest of the excerpt remains at fortissimo supported and sustained by the timpani and brass playing loudly adding to the powerful mood.