Born February 23, 1685

 

Died: April 14, 1759

 

Location: Italy, London

 

Known for: In 1717 Handel became house composer at Cannons in Middlesex, where he made his legacy for his future choral compositions in the twelve Chandos Anthems. In 1719, The First Duke of Newcastle ordered him to go look in search of good singers to form an opera. By 1723 he had moved into a house at 25 Brook Street, which he rented for the rest of his life. This house, where he rehearsed, copied music and sold tickets, is now the Handel House Museum. In 1749 Handel composed Music for the Royal Fireworks, 12,000 people attended the first performance. In 1750 he conducted a performance to help the Foundling Hospital. The performance was considered a great success and was followed by annual concerts that continued throughout his legendary life.

 

Works: Handel's compositions include 42 operas, 29 oratorios, more than 120 cantatas, trios and duets, numerous arias, chamber music, a large number of ecumenical pieces, odes and serenatas, and 16 organ concerti. His most famous work, the oratorio Messiah with its "Hallelujah" chorus, its among the most popular works in choral music and has become the centerpiece of the Christmas music and season.

 

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4JIHvmoN0E

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