The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby and other clergy members are seen leaving The State Funeral for Queen Elizabeth IILeon Neal/Getty Images
One impassioned singer with curly red hair particularly caught the attention of viewers, as Westminster ensemble’s voices filled the rafters of the magnificent Abbey. Delivering a star-worthy performance filled with passion, movement and expression, the young boy was praised for his earnest emotion. His enthusiasm was particularly evident during the choir’s rendition of Psalm 42: 1-7. Dubbed by some as the ‘MVP’ of the funeral, he was a hit amongst Twitter users. ‘He’s having the time of his life’, one Twitter user wrote, whilst another said, ‘The one choirboy on the end is really putting his heart and soul into his performance. 10/10 for effort.’
A general view shows the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard, lying at Westminster Abbey in LondonBEN STANSALL/Getty Images
It is unsurprising that much of what was said and sung was the traditional language of the prayer book which the Queen would have been familiar with. Having chosen the hymns herself, they held special meaning and poignance to her. The hymns included one specially composed piece by Scottish composer Sir James Mac Millan, entitled, ‘Who shall separate us now?’ and one of the Queen’s favourites, ‘The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not Want’, which was sung at her wedding. ‘Love Divine, all loves excelling’ was first heard at the wedding of the now Prince and Princess of Wales. As such, the Choir music acted as a bridge between the past and present: bringing a poignance to the day which helped attendees and onlookers to mourn. Our late monarch’s wishes were fulfilled as choristers took part in a ceremony which tied two eras together.
