Quick Facts
Hallelujah!" Handel's Messiah echoes; Baroque master of music and drama.
Conversation Starters
Life Journey
George Frideric Handel was born to Georg and Dorothea Handel in Halle, Duchy of Magdeburg, Holy Roman Empire. His father was a barber-surgeon who initially discouraged his musical interests.
Handel began taking music lessons from Friedrich Wilhelm Zachow, the organist at the Liebfrauenkirche in Halle. Zachow introduced him to the works of major composers and taught him organ and composition.
Handel enrolled at the University of Halle to study law, but his passion for music led him to focus on composition and performance. He soon left to pursue a career in music.
Handel moved to Hamburg and became the organist at the Church of St. Jacobi. He also collaborated with other musicians and began composing operas, including 'Almira,' which was a significant early success.
Handel traveled to Italy, where he spent several years studying and composing. He met influential musicians and composers, including Arcangelo Corelli and Alessandro Scarlatti, and produced works such as 'Agrippina' and 'La Resurrezione.'
Handel was appointed Kapellmeister (music director) to the Elector of Hanover, who later became King George I of Great Britain. He also secured permission to visit London, where he would eventually settle.
Handel moved to London and quickly became a prominent figure in the city's musical scene. He composed several operas and oratorios, including 'Rinaldo,' which was a major success and established his reputation.
Handel was naturalized as a British subject by an Act of Parliament. This recognition solidified his status and influence in British society and allowed him to continue his successful career in London.
Handel's oratorio 'Messiah' premiered in Dublin, Ireland, and was met with great acclaim. It has since become one of the most beloved and frequently performed works in the classical repertoire.
George Frideric Handel died in his home in London, leaving behind a vast legacy of musical compositions and a significant impact on the development of Western classical music. He was buried in Westminster Abbey.