Profile of George Frideric Handel

Born:

February 23, 1685; his parents were Georg Handel and Dorothea Taust.

Birthplace:

Halle, Germany

Died:

April 14, 1759 in London

Also Known As:

Creator of the English oratorio, one of the most important Baroque composers and master of polyphony. He also worked as music director for the duke of Chandos beginning in 1718. In 1726, he became composer of the Chapel Royal.

Type of Compositions:

He composed operas, oratorios and songs. He also wrote orchestral and chamber music.

Influence:

It is known that Handel's father didn't want him to become a musician; his father wanted him to become a lawyer instead. However, the young Handel managed to secretly play the clavichord in their attic. Later on his father would allow him to study music under Friedrich Zachow.

Notable Works:

Undoubtedly, his most famous work is the oratorio "Messiah," he also wrote other well-received works like "Samson," his operas "Almira," "Rinaldo," "Il pastor fido," "Teseo" and his English songs "Come and listen (The Sailor’s Complaint)," "Love’s but the frailty of the mind" and "As on a sunshine summer’s day."

Interesting Facts:

Before he died, Handel lost his eyesight due to cataracts. During his travels to Italy in 1706 to 1710, he met Arcangelo Correli and the father-son composers Alessandro and Domenico Scarlatti. Handel was buried at the Poets' Corner in Westminster Abbey.

Music Sample:

Theme from the "Water Music"