Prince Philip planned almost every element of his funeral for 18 years, including the music played during the ceremony held for him on April 17 at Windsor Castle.
A four-person choir of St. George performed the hymn of William Whiting's "Eternal Father, Strong to Save" ceremony, as well as some additional songs written by order of Prince Philip.
Written in 1860, "Eternal Father, Strong to Save" is inspired by the dangers of the sea described in Psalm 107 and is also known as "For Those in Peril on the Sea".
Prince Philip, who served in the Royal Navy for 14 years during World War II, once described the sea as an "extraordinary master or master."
"He has such a state of mind that he sometimes feels that this is the only kind of life and 10 minutes later you are praying for death," he said.
The prince also made two trips around the world on the Royal Yacht Britannia.
"The Jubliate", which was written by English composer Benjamin Britten at his request, is literally translated into "songs of joy" and includes a reference to the entry into "the gates of God with thanksgiving". It is believed that Prince Philip asked Britten to compose both "Jubliate" and "Te Deum" in 1958. The composer passed away in 1976.
Action Stations, also known as the "Royal Navy General Alarm", was also played during the ceremony, at the specific request of Prince Philip, as "a soldier who has gone to his last resort".
The funeral also included "Sir Adagio" by Sir William Harris, "Salix" by Percy Whitlock and "Berceuse" by French composer Louis Vierne. As the funeral ended, the choir also sang the national anthem.
Source: The Independent
