Handel’s Masterpieces | A Comprehensive Introduction to His Popular Works
George Frideric Handel, a composer who epitomizes Baroque music.
He poured his passion into dramatic works, composing many operas and oratorios.
Alongside his contemporary Bach, he made his mark as a master of the Baroque, but Handel’s hallmark is his dramatic expressiveness and moving melodies, crafted for a broad audience.
Some of his pieces are used as background music in variety shows and visual media, so even those not familiar with classical music may have heard his works at least once.
Experience the richly emotional world of his music for yourself.
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Handel’s Masterpieces | A Comprehensive Introduction to Popular Works (21–30)
“Hallelujah Chorus” from the oratorio MessiahGeorg Friedrich Händel
Georg Friedrich Handel, a composer who epitomizes the late Baroque.
His oratorio Messiah remains a masterpiece beloved around the world.
Among its movements, the chorus placed at the end of Part II is nothing short of breathtaking.
Words proclaiming joy surge like waves, and the layers of voices create a soaring elation that seems to reach the heavens.
The work’s divine power is convincing in light of the anecdote that Handel was inspired while composing it.
Since its premiere in April 1742, it has been cherished across eras, and in later years a gospel-style adaptation, Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration, won a Grammy Award.
It’s the perfect piece when you want your heart to tremble before monumental music.
Messiah Pastorale Symphony “Pifa”Georg Friedrich Händel
Handel, a master of Baroque music, composed the oratorio Messiah in 1741, and it was premiered in Dublin in April 1742.
The instrumental interlude placed in Part I is a brief pastoral that quietly foreshadows the announcement of the Holy Night to the shepherds.
Over a sustained bass, the strings sing a gentle melody in parallel thirds, and the relaxed swell of the 12/8 meter evokes a Siciliano-like simplicity.
Eschewing brass and percussion entirely, and relying on legato strings alone to depict the stillness of night and a distant prayer without words, the piece crystallizes Handel’s gift for dramatic architecture.
Even within the full Messiah—now a staple of Christmas concert programs—this episode stands out as a scene that conjures particularly serene imagery.
Samson HWV 57 ‘Overture’Georg Friedrich Händel
Georg Friedrich Handel, a leading figure of the late Baroque.
This piece opens the overture to the oratorio Samson, which Handel undertook immediately after completing the famous Messiah and premiered in February 1743.
While the oratorio deals with the tragedy of a hero, this work does not depict the story directly; rather, it heightens anticipation for the grand drama to come.
Its appeal lies in the brilliant, resounding brass, whose powerful sonorities suggest the hero’s dignity and the sanctity of the tale, instantly drawing listeners in.
Known also through recordings conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt, this piece is perfect as an introduction before focusing on a task, or whenever you want to immerse yourself in the expansive world of classical music.
Hymn No. 112: “O Come, All Ye Faithful”George Frideric Handel
This famous hymn is said to have been inspired by the works of Baroque master George Frideric Handel.
As one of the quintessential Christmas carols, it is known around the world—the very song you often hear resounding from churches in winter.
Its charm lies in the triumphant, fanfare-like melody that bursts forth from the opening.
It’s a hopeful tune that seems to brighten the heart just by listening.
The grand vision of all nature simultaneously celebrating the arrival of the Savior blends magnificently with the solemn harmonies.
With original lyrics dating back to 1719, this piece is the perfect number for anyone seeking a majestic and moving choral work for Christmas.
From Samson HWV 57: ‘Return, O Lord of Hosts’Georg Friedrich Händel
A masterpiece of the oratorio genre by Baroque great George Frideric Handel, Samson.
The piece sung within the drama portrays a hero at the brink of despair and the heartfelt prayers of the people who care for him.
Its chief allure lies in the way an introspective alto solo prayer gradually unfolds into a majestic chorus.
It beautifully expresses a profound supplication to God and the yearning for hope amid hardship.
Acclaimed since its 1743 premiere, the October 1952 recording by the celebrated contralto Kathleen Ferrier is renowned as a historic classic.
Highly recommended for those who love classical music with grand, solemn narratives.
Oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, Act III: See, the Conqu’ring Hero ComesGeorg Friedrich Händel
When you hear “the awards ceremony song,” isn’t this the melody many people think of? This famous tune, beloved in settings ranging from school sports days to many other occasions, was written in the 1740s by the Baroque master George Frideric Handel.
In fact, within the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, this piece is performed as the people greet a hero returning victorious from battle with jubilant celebration.
Not only does it have a background perfectly suited to award scenes, but its dignified, stately melody impressed even Beethoven, who wrote a set of variations on its theme.
It’s said that Handel originally composed it for a different work, then incorporated it into this piece himself as a confident showpiece.
A song that proclaims the glory of victory in resounding tones—truly a triumphant march worthy of the name.
Water MusicHenderu
A work in which majestic and resplendent orchestral melodies resound with beauty.
Composed by Handel for a boating party on the River Thames in July 1717, this piece musically depicts the gentle flow of the river.
The rich sonorities woven by a variety of instruments—such as horns, oboes, and strings—create an elegant, soothing atmosphere, like light shimmering on the water’s surface.
Even today, its universal appeal is evident in its use as the theme music for NHK-FM’s “Enjoying Early Music” and as the departure melody at Kyoto Station.
It is a recommended piece for tasks or study that require concentration, or whenever you wish to quietly calm your mind.
Concerto Grosso in G majorGeorg Friedrich Händel
A concerto grosso is a musical form commonly used in the Baroque period, featuring alternating passages between a group of soloists and the orchestra.
Although relatively lesser-known among Handel’s works, this piece is captivating, with beautifully layered sounds of the strings.
Music on the Water – Alla HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel
This is a masterpiece by George Frideric Handel, a composer emblematic of the Baroque era.
It premiered in 1717 on the River Thames for King George I of Great Britain during a royal water party.
It is characterized by its brilliant, lively rhythms and melodies, with horns, trumpets, and strings carrying the main themes.
The work evokes the opulent atmosphere of the royal court and the excitement of festivities, achieving a style that is both elegant and grand.
It’s perfect for those who want to savor a refreshing morning mood.
Its bright, splendid melodies are sure to energize you for a new day.
Even those new to classical music will find it approachable and enjoyable, making it highly recommended.
Oratorio “Solomon,” HWV 67 Act III, No. 42 “The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba”Georg Friedrich Händel
The festive and resplendent choral piece “The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” by Baroque master Handel is one of the numbers from the oratorio Solomon, depicting the scene of the Queen of Sheba visiting Israel.
Brilliant strings and oboes play vividly, as if to welcome the queen’s procession, expressing in music a utopia filled with peace and prosperity.
Solemn yet overflowing with joy, this piece is perfect for celebratory occasions such as weddings.
Why not enjoy Handel’s timeless masterpiece on the piano as well?