Prince George's christening: music and pictures
What classical music did the heir to the throne hear at his christening? A full list of hymns and anthems heard at the Chapel Royal at 3pm on 23 October 2013.
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1. Bach - Fantasia in G
No-one writes organ music better than Bach, so it's only right that he be present at one of the most important christenings in recent history. The Fantasia in G is gloriously triumphant, but beautifully measured throughout - a masterclass in organ writing.
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2. Breathe on Me, Breath of God
"Breathe on me, Breath of God, until my heart is pure." An appropriate choice for a christening, as Prince George is accepted into the Church of England.
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3. Popplewell - Blessed Jesu! Here we Stand
He's not a hugely well-known composer, but Popplewell wrote his anthem, Blessed Jesu! Here we Stand anthem for Prince William's baptism back in 1982.
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4. Be Thou My Vision
This popular traditional hymn from Ireland asks for God to guide the congregation with protection and wisdom.
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5. Widor - Toccata
This is a wedding classic, often used when the happy couple depart the church, but with the christening of Prince George it's found a whole new significance. Stately and epic, this must have sounded immense on the Chapel Royal's organ.
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6. Rutter - The Lord Bless You and Keep You
Anthems make up an important part of any christening, and John Rutter is without doubt the country's most famous purveyor of the format. The Lord Bless You and Keep You is a perfect sentiment for the occasion, too, as Prince George embarks upon the early stages of his life.
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7. Prince George at the Chapel Royal
The music and hymns chosen today add to a long line of music-making in the Chapel Royal. Its notable organists including Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, Orlando Gibbons and Henry Purcell.
