George Frideric Handel
Composer of Messiah and Water Music
Born
February 23rd, 1685
340 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1759
266 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in Germany, Handel became a prominent composer who settled in England. His work encompassed various musical forms, including operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. Handel's most acclaimed piece, the oratorio Messiah, premiered in 1742 and has since become a cornerstone of classical choral music. His contributions to the development of English opera were notable, with productions such as Rinaldo and Giulio Cesare. Handel's Water Music suite, originally performed on the Thames River for King George I in 1717, remains popular in concert repertoire. Handel's influence extended beyond his lifetime, significantly shaping the evolution of Western classical music.
Composed the oratorio Messiah
Wrote Water Music
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