George Frideric Handel

George Frideric Handel (1685–1759) was a German-born Baroque composer who spent much of his career in London and became a naturalized British subject in 1727.

George Frideric Handel (1685–1759) was a German-born Baroque composer who spent much of his career in London and became a naturalized British subject in 1727. He is especially known for his operas, oratorios, and orchestral works, including the oratorio Messiah and the concert works Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks. Handel's works are a staple of Canadian orchestras, choirs, and churches, and are regularly performed across the country.

Early life and training

Handel was born in Halle in 1685 and showed early musical ability. He trained early in Germany, then worked in Hamburg and Italy before settling in London. In Italy, he absorbed Italian musical styles that shaped his later work.

Career in London

Handel settled in London in 1712 and became a central figure in the city's musical life. He became a naturalized British subject in 1727 and spent most of his career there.

Major works

Handel's output includes 42 operas and 24 oratorios, along with many cantatas, concertos, and chamber works. Messiah, first performed in 1742, is one of the best-known works in Western choral music. He also composed widely performed orchestral pieces such as Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks.

Style and legacy

Handel is regarded as one of the leading composers of the late Baroque era. His music helped define English-language oratorio and continues to be performed internationally. His works are frequently performed alongside those of other major composers such as Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johannes Brahms.