Sir Antonio Pappano conductor of the orchestra at King Charles coronation

The renowned English-Italian conductor and pianist, Sir Antonio Pappano, is set to conduct the orchestra in Westminster Abbey in London for King Charles III’s Coronation on May 6.

At the Coronation of Camilla, Queen Consort, and King Charles, the orchestra performs 12 newly-commissioned compositions by numerous prominent composers from across the UK and the Commonwealth, including Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Patrick Doyle. According to Buckingham Palace, the musical performance comprises various musical styles in which performers merge tradition, legacy, and ceremony with contemporary musical voices.

The coronation ceremony music was hand-selected by King Charles himself. Pappano stated, “I am deeply honored to have been chosen by His Majesty to participate in the musical presentations that will embrace the historic occasion of his Coronation. His Majesty has chosen a most beautiful and varied program that I believe will enhance the splendor of this very special celebration.”

Pappano has been the musical director of the Royal Opera House since 2002 and Rome’s Accademia Nazionale di S. Cecilia since 2005. Pappano was awarded a knighthood in the 2012 New Year Honours for his contributions to the musical community. He was also awarded the title of Cavaliere di Gran Croce, the highest-ranking honor, of the Republic of Italy in 2012. Over his distinguished career, Pappano has appeared as a guest conductor for some of the world’s finest orchestras, festivals, and opera houses, garnering him many accolades and awards. He is expected to become the London Symphony Orchestra’s chief conductor in 2024.

-Nazli Esen