Georg Friedrich Händel, born on February 23, 1685, in Halle, Germany, was a… Read Full Bio ↴Georg Friedrich Händel, born on February 23, 1685, in Halle, Germany, was a prolific composer and one of the most significant figures of the Baroque era. Händel's musical talent was evident from a young age, and despite his father's initial opposition, he received early musical training and excelled in playing the harpsichord and organ.
In his early 20s, Händel traveled to Hamburg, where he immersed himself in the opera scene. There, he composed his first operas and gained recognition for his talent. Seeking further inspiration and opportunities, Händel journeyed to Italy in 1706, where he studied under renowned composers and absorbed the rich musical traditions of the country. During his time in Italy, he composed numerous operas and sacred music, establishing his reputation as a skilled composer.
In 1710, Händel settled in London, England, where he initially composed Italian operas for the Royal Academy of Music. However, as public taste changed, he transitioned to composing English-language oratorios, which combined elements of opera and sacred music. His oratorio "Esther" in 1718 marked the beginning of his success in this genre.
Händel's fame soared with his composition of the oratorio "Messiah" in 1741. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, "Messiah" eventually became one of the most beloved and frequently performed works in the Western classical repertoire. Händel's oratorios, including "Samson," "Judas Maccabaeus," and "Israel in Egypt," showcased his ability to blend grandeur, emotional depth, and dramatic storytelling.
Beyond oratorios, Händel composed instrumental music, including concertos and orchestral suites. His famous "Water Music" and "Music for the Royal Fireworks" exemplify his skill in crafting joyful and celebratory compositions. Händel's works exhibited a mastery of counterpoint, rich harmonies, and expressive melodies, earning him admiration and patronage from British nobility and royalty.
In his later years, Händel faced financial struggles and health issues, including a gradual loss of vision. However, he continued to compose prolifically, adapting to changing musical trends. Despite setbacks, his final oratorio, "Jephtha," was completed in 1751.
Georg Friedrich Händel passed away on April 14, 1759, leaving behind an immense musical legacy. His compositions played a crucial role in shaping the development of Western classical music, and his influence extended to composers such as Mozart and Beethoven. Händel's music continues to be celebrated for its grandeur, emotional depth, and timeless beauty, ensuring his enduring status as one of the greatest composers in history.
In his early 20s, Händel traveled to Hamburg, where he immersed himself in the opera scene. There, he composed his first operas and gained recognition for his talent. Seeking further inspiration and opportunities, Händel journeyed to Italy in 1706, where he studied under renowned composers and absorbed the rich musical traditions of the country. During his time in Italy, he composed numerous operas and sacred music, establishing his reputation as a skilled composer.
In 1710, Händel settled in London, England, where he initially composed Italian operas for the Royal Academy of Music. However, as public taste changed, he transitioned to composing English-language oratorios, which combined elements of opera and sacred music. His oratorio "Esther" in 1718 marked the beginning of his success in this genre.
Händel's fame soared with his composition of the oratorio "Messiah" in 1741. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, "Messiah" eventually became one of the most beloved and frequently performed works in the Western classical repertoire. Händel's oratorios, including "Samson," "Judas Maccabaeus," and "Israel in Egypt," showcased his ability to blend grandeur, emotional depth, and dramatic storytelling.
Beyond oratorios, Händel composed instrumental music, including concertos and orchestral suites. His famous "Water Music" and "Music for the Royal Fireworks" exemplify his skill in crafting joyful and celebratory compositions. Händel's works exhibited a mastery of counterpoint, rich harmonies, and expressive melodies, earning him admiration and patronage from British nobility and royalty.
In his later years, Händel faced financial struggles and health issues, including a gradual loss of vision. However, he continued to compose prolifically, adapting to changing musical trends. Despite setbacks, his final oratorio, "Jephtha," was completed in 1751.
Georg Friedrich Händel passed away on April 14, 1759, leaving behind an immense musical legacy. His compositions played a crucial role in shaping the development of Western classical music, and his influence extended to composers such as Mozart and Beethoven. Händel's music continues to be celebrated for its grandeur, emotional depth, and timeless beauty, ensuring his enduring status as one of the greatest composers in history.
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HANDEL: Apollo and Dafne / Alchemist
Robert Pomakov Lyrics
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