George Frideric Handel (23 February 1685 – 14 April 1759) was a German-British Baroque composer known for his operas, oratorios, anthems, concerti grossi, and organ concertos. Born in Halle, Germany, he spent his early years in Hamburg and Italy before settling in London in 1712, where he spent most of his career and… Read moreShow less
George Frideric Handel (23 February 1685 – 14 April 1759) was a German-British Baroque composer known for his operas, oratorios, anthems, concerti grossi, and organ concertos. Born in Halle, Germany, he spent his early years in Hamburg and Italy before settling in London in 1712, where he spent most of his career and became a naturalised British subject in 1727. Handel's music was influenced by the middle-German polyphonic choral tradition and Italian Baroque composers. His work represents a high point of the Baroque style, advancing Italian opera, creating the English oratorio and organ concerto genres, and introducing new styles into English church music. He is regarded as one of the leading composers of his time.
Handel established three commercial opera companies to provide Italian opera for the English nobility. In 1737, following a physical breakdown, he shifted his focus to English choral works aimed at the middle class. After the success of Messiah in 1742, he ceased composing Italian operas. His orchestral works, including Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks, remain popular. One of his coronation anthems, "Zadok the Priest," has been performed at every British coronation since 1727. Handel died in 1759, aged 74, as a respected and wealthy figure, and was given a state funeral at Westminster Abbey.
Interest in Handel's music increased notably from the mid-20th century onwards. Musicologist Winton Dean described him as not only a great composer but also a dramatic genius. His music was admired by Classical-era composers such as Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven.