[Handel's Piano Pieces] A selection of famous works by the Baroque master

Chaconne in G major, HWV 435Georg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Chaconne in G major, HWV 435

The Baroque-era composer George Frideric Handel began composing around the age of nine and quickly displayed his talent.

Among the masterpieces he created during his eventful life is the set of variations in chaconne form, the Chaconne in G major.

The variations unfold one after another as if viewing the theme from multiple angles, giving the impression that Handel’s wellspring of creativity never runs dry.

Its graceful, brilliant passages bring out the piano’s appeal to the fullest.

Though it demands advanced technique to perform, the more one practices, the more its rich musicality blossoms—truly a masterpiece.

Oratorio “Judas Maccabaeus” HWV 63, Part III, No. 58 “See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes”Georg Friedrich Händel

[Award Ceremony Music] Handel: See, the Conquering Hero Comes — Pianist: Yuki Kondo / Handel: See, the Conquering Hero Comes! Piano, Yuki Kondo

Georg Friedrich Handel, a master of the Baroque era, left behind a wide range of works, including pieces for the harpsichord—the keyboard instrument of his time—as well as oratorios and songs.

Among them, See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes from Part III of the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus is a moving piece that depicts a hero’s triumphant return.

With the addition of the choral parts, the emotions of liberation and jubilation among the Jewish people swell even further, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Beloved in many contexts, this masterpiece is one you will surely enjoy performing on the piano as well.

Harpsichord Suite, Second Collection, No. 4 in D minor, HWV 437 — No. 4 “Sarabande”Georg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Suite HWV 437 “Sarabande” / ヘンデル：組曲集より “サラバンド” HWV 437

George Frideric Handel, who had a profound influence on the development of Baroque music.

The Sarabande from No.

4 in his Second Set of Harpsichord Suites, written for the keyboard instrument harpsichord, is a compelling work that combines deep emotion and a solemn atmosphere while leaving considerable room for improvisation.

In performance, characteristically Baroque expression is required, such as adding distinctive ornamentation and weaving in subtle changes of tempo.

Alongside solid technique, it is a piece that tests a performer’s expressive ability to convey rich feeling.

Water Music, Suite No. 2 in D major, HWV 349: II. Alla HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: “Alla Hornpipe” from Water Music — Pianist Yuki Kondo

Georg Frideric Handel, a giant of the Baroque era.

His works—including operas, oratorios, anthems, and concerti grossi—are all highly esteemed as pinnacles of Baroque music.

Among them, Water Music, written for the British royal family, is one of Handel’s signature pieces still heard everywhere today.

In particular, the Alla Hornpipe is a popular movement, memorable for its bright, rhythmic melody.

Famous for having been performed during a royal boating party on the River Thames, this work—scored with a brilliant, trumpet-forward instrumentation—captivates listeners from the first notes.

Its brilliance can be fully expressed on the piano as well, so do give it a try.

Oratorio “Messiah” Part II, No. 23 “Hallelujah”Georg Friedrich Händel

Hallelujah chorus by G. F HANDEL from Messiah. Piano Accompanyment

Hallelujah,” one of the most beloved pieces from the masterful oratorio Messiah by Georg Friedrich Handel, a genius composer of the Baroque era.

This majestic chorus crowns the final part of the grand narrative depicting Christ’s birth, Passion, and Resurrection.

Its powerful lyrics, drawn from Scripture, praise God’s omnipotence and eternal reign, expressing worship and reverence.

Stirring the soul through its weighty chorus and brilliant orchestration, this work also allows one to experience its sublime music fully at the piano.