The six stages of the ceremony

There are typically six stages to the coronation service. The Palace has yet to confirm if all will be followed.

First is the recognition. The King will be presented, the congregation will shout “God save the King!” and trumpets will sound.

Next comes the oath, when the King swears to uphold the law and the Church of England.

This is followed by the most sacred part of the proceeding, the anointing in holy oil under a canopy. Then, during the

investiture, the King will be presented with the Sovereign’s Orb and Sceptre and the St Edward’s Crown placed on his head. This is the only time the King will wear this crown throughout his reign. Finally comes the

enthronement, when the King will move to the throne, and the

homage, when Prince William will kneel before his father.

Queen Camilla will then also be anointed and crowned.

Top, right: Queen Elizabeth II is annointed in holy oil under the canopy, the most sacred part of the proceedings. Above, right: An artist’s rendition of the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911.

The music

The King has personally commissioned 12 pieces of music which include a new Coronation Anthem by Andrew Lloyd Webber, a Coronation March by Patrick Doyle and a solo organ piece embracing musical themes from countries across the Commonwealth by Iain Farrington. The o cial Royal Harpist Alis Huws will also perform as part of the Coronation Orchestra. And listen out also for Australian virtuoso violinist Madeleine Easton, who will play with the English Baroque Soloists and Monteverdi Choir.