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)
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.
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?
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.
Water Music: HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel
There is an orchestral suite by George Frideric Handel written to adorn a royal river outing, and one of its pieces combines a refreshing coolness with festive brilliance that suits summer perfectly.
At its premiere on the Thames in July 1717, it captivated audiences so much that King George I reportedly ordered multiple encores.
With trumpets and horns in lively motion, it lifts listeners into a bright, celebratory mood.
It’s also known for coloring a scene in the film Dead Poets Society.
For those seeking a brisk, invigorating moment on muggy days, or anyone who wants to enjoy the majestic yet light charm of Baroque music with ease, this piece is just the thing.
Organ ConcertoGeorg Friedrich Händel
It consists of six pieces, and in particular the sixth has also been arranged as a harp concerto.
Originally composed to be performed between sections of a large-scale oratorio, the pieces greatly entertained audiences of the time.
It is a work that highlights the organ’s majestic weight as well as its charming, delicate sonorities.