Acclaimed South African opera singer Pretty Yende, 38, delivered a moving performance at King Charles III’s coronation at Westminster Abbey, garnering widespread praise.
Yende, renowned for her soprano voice, made history as the first African solo artist to perform at a British coronation. She beautifully executed “Sacred Fire,” a new piece by renowned classical and film composer Sarah Class, before an audience that included global dignitaries and royal family members.
Her performance received positive feedback and applause from fans on social media platforms.
Opera holds a special place in King Charles’ heart, as evidenced by his patronage of over a dozen international music organizations. The king’s wedding to the late Princess Diana in 1981 featured a performance by New Zealand opera singer Kiri Te Kanawa.
This wasn’t King Charles’ first encounter with Yende’s mesmerizing voice, as he enjoyed listening to her at the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s 75th-anniversary gala at Windsor Castle in April 2022.
Yende expressed her delight to local media about the opportunity to perform in front of her family back home and millions of viewers who tuned in for the global coronation ceremony.
In a related event, Nigeria’s afro-pop sensation Tiwa Savage, 43, is set to perform at King Charles III’s coronation concert on May 7, 2023, at Windsor Castle, London.
The Grammy-nominated artist, who also has British citizenship, will share the stage with a star-studded line-up including Steve Winwood, DJ Pete Tong, Lang Lang, Lucy, Paloma Faith, and Olly Mur.
Savage’s invitation to perform at the coronation marks a significant achievement, as she becomes the first Nigerian artist to receive such an honour.
As the world continues to celebrate the historic coronation of King Charles III, it’s clear that the event also serves as a global stage for showcasing exceptional talent. The performances of Yende and Savage, and other renowned artists highlight the diversity and richness of international music and underscore the unifying power of art on such significant occasions. As the curtains fall on this grand event, their performances’ echoes will continue to resonate, signifying a new era of royal patronage and global inclusivity in music.
