Clive Bibby: A Jewel in the Crown

Nothing compares like music or a beautiful sound given life by a gifted singer in times when we seek inspiration from a world that appears to offer none. 

While many will have taken other special moments from King Charles’s Coronation - for me, it was the South African Soprano Pretty Yende singing Sacred Fire who stole the show. Her performance was beautifully executed and went a long way towards restoring my waning support in the monarchy. Others may have viewed it similarly. I hope so. 

I was reminded of one of Charles predecessors, King George lll who has historically been rather unfairly portrayed as the “Mad King George” when in fact, a proper reading of history suggests he was, not only one of the longest reigning British monarchs but also apparently loved by his loyal subjects - something achieved by few of those who either preceded or followed him - the late Queen Elizabeth ll and her Dad, King George VI being two of the obvious exceptions 

But l believe it was the same King George lll who became so moved by a rendition of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus that he rose and stood to attention until the performance was completed. Therein, l am told, lies the background to the current practice of the audience standing during the playing of that important part of “the Messiah”. 

It is somewhat irrelevant whether we believe that God inspired or gifted the writers and performers of these magnificent works - but it cannot be denied that they bring so much emotionally charged moments of joy to those lucky enough to witness the delivery.

And fortunately for the millions watching the latest Coronation on TV at home or on the big screens in pubs, bars, clubs or parks - we could all benefit from sharing it in our own way. 

Such is the madness that surrounds our everyday existence, it is hard to remember the last time l felt so emotionally overwhelmed by a single short lived event. It is perhaps a reflection of the times that we, as the most intelligent species on the planet, have become so weighed down by the problems associated with daily living, we must turn to some timeless inspirational experience as a panacea for all our woes

Sadly, millions have already fallen between the cracks and are suffering the consequences of bad choices. 

Sure we get temporarily distracted by what happens on the scoreboard at sporting contests during the weekends but that is over in a moment and we are left to anticipate the excitement that might be generated by the next event. 

With only a few exceptions, nothing has the capacity to leave us with a lasting feeling of warmth and gratitude for having had the privilege of being there when it happened. 

That is why I find the writing and performance of music is one of those rare human qualities that will have a lasting influence on how we adjust to the pressures of daily living. 

It is the solace that can, even fleetingly, take us out of ourselves to a place where we feel no pain. 

Without that opportunity and, given the state of the world, we might as well all go mad. 

I hope you enjoy Pretty Yende’s performance:

Clive Bibby is a commentator, consultant, farmer and community leader, who lives in Tolaga Bay.