Why is George Frideric Handel important?
George Frideric Handel, a German-born English composer of the late Baroque era, was known particularly for his operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. He wrote the most famous of all oratorios, Messiah (1741).
What was George Frideric Handel personality?
In summary, I believe Handel had a rich, normally neurotic personality. He was capable of passion and of lasting close relationships. Rather than ponderously religious, he remained a serious communicant but could tolerate other beliefs and disbeliefs.
Who did Handel influence?
George Frideric Handel He was strongly influenced both by the great composers of the Italian Baroque and the middle-German polyphonic choral tradition. Within fifteen years, Handel had started three commercial opera companies to supply the English nobility with Italian opera.
Where did George Frideric Handel do most of his work?
Handel received his training in Halle and worked as a composer in Hamburg and Italy before settling in London in 1712, where he spent the bulk of his career and became a naturalised British subject in 1727. He was strongly influenced both by the middle-German polyphonic choral tradition and by composers of the Italian Baroque .
Who was born the same year as Handel?
Born the same year as Johann Sebastian Bach and Domenico Scarlatti, Handel is regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Baroque era, with works such as Water Music, Music for the Royal Fireworks and Messiah remaining steadfastly popular.
Why was George Frideric Handel important to the Enlightenment?
Part of Handel’s career coincided with the 18th century Enlightenment – a period of history with a rising middle class that would eventually revolt against aristocratic rule. Traditionally, the ruling class patronized the arts. The new middle class, however, had the means to attend entertainment…
What kind of music did George Handel write?
Handel was more successful composing oratorios, the most famous being Messiah. In addition to anthems, songs, and cantatas, Handel also wrote instrumental pieces that included sonatas, concertos, and suites for orchestra such as Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks. To unlock this lesson you must be a Study.com Member.