Composers plan anthem for Queen Elizabeth jubilee

Published 9:52 pm Friday, February 24, 2012

LONDON — Queen Elizabeth II can expect many gifts as she prepares for her 60-year jubilee. The one announced Friday will come from music royalty.

World famous composer Andrew Lloyd Webber has joined ranks with Gary Barlow, of Take That fame, to compose a special jubilee anthem to mark, later this year, the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s ascension to the throne, organizers announced Friday.

Lloyd Webber and Barlow will seek out other artists around the globe to perform with them at a star-studded diamond jubilee concert in front of Buckingham Palace on June 4.

The aim is to incorporate different musical traditions and to reflect the theme of what the queen means to ordinary people in the countries of the Commonwealth.

To discover that, Barlow is to embark on a journey of preparation to the Caribbean, Africa, the Pacific Islands and Australasia.

“This is probably the biggest challenge I’ve ever taken on musically. I’m so excited and thrilled to be a part of it,” said Barlow.

Lloyd Webber, the composer of such musicals as “Evita” and “Phantom of the Opera,” said: “It is a huge honor to be involved in this historic occasion.”

The concert, one of the highlights of a weekend of celebrations, has already attracted star performers including former Beatle Paul McCartney, Elton John, Shirley Bassey, Cliff Richard and Ed Sheeran.

It will be performed in front of the palace, around the large fountain carrying a statue of Queen Victoria, and be beamed live round the world.