Handel’s Masterpieces | A Comprehensive Introduction to His Popular Works

Suite for Two HarpsichordsGeorg Friedrich Händel

SUITE FOR TWO HARPSICHORDS IN C MOLL – HWV 446 – Handel

A dazzling piece in which the timbres of two harpsichords intertwine in a finely balanced counterpoise.

Comprising four movements (Prelude, Courante, Sarabande, and Chaconne), it presents melodies that sometimes race forward and at other times unfold with a leisurely, weighty grandeur.

Water Music, Suite No. 2 – II. Alla HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Water Music Suite No. 2 – II. Alla Hornpipe [Naxos Classical Curations #Gorgeous]

When you think of music drifting over the surface of a river, you might imagine a gentle melody; however, the section from George Frideric Handel’s Water Music is brimming with brilliance that invites listeners into a festive mood.

The piece was first performed on the River Thames in July 1717, and there is an anecdote that the king was so delighted he called for multiple encores.

With trumpets and horns resounding boldly and a buoyant, spirited character that lifts the heart, it perfectly enhances the open feeling of summer.

It is also familiar from children’s programs such as Little Einsteins, making it enjoyable across generations.

For those seeking a refreshing moment that makes you forget the muggy heat, this is a work well worth lending your ears to.

Water MusicGeorg Friedrich Händel

[Long Version] Handel - Water Music

It’s a Handel piece whose generous, flowing music lets you picture a broad river, gently soaking into the heart and bringing comfort.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call this the essence of classical music.

The slightly Baroque feel is truly lovely.

Passee piedGeorg Friedrich Händel

George Frideric HANDEL: Passepied in C major, HWV 559

A passepied is a type of classical dance that means “passing feet,” characterized by a 3/8 meter and a binary form, and it was particularly popular during the Baroque period.

Although the pieces themselves are very short and simple, this is a highly appealing work with a light and elegant melody.

Music of the Palace FireworksGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks: Overture [Naxos Classical Curations #Gorgeous]

This piece was composed in 1748 for a celebration marking the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which ended the War of the Austrian Succession.

It consists of five movements: the overture, suitably resplendent for a festive work, is followed by a series of dances, creating a structure that offers enjoyable variety.

impertinenceGeorg Friedrich Händel

George Frideric Handel – Impertinence HWV494 – Baroque And Classical Piano Music

Impertinence means “inappropriate” or “fool,” but it is not clear why this title was chosen.

Unlike its peculiar title, the piece itself is simple yet elegant and has a calming effect on the listener.

Suite “Music for the Royal Fireworks,” HWV 351, No. 4 “Rejoicing”Georg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Suite “Music for the Royal Fireworks”: Rejoicing [Naxos Classical Curations #Energetic]

A magnificent piece of festive music by George Frideric Handel, a British composer of German origin.

Composed in 1749 at the request of King George II to celebrate the conclusion of a peace treaty, its brilliant, lively allegro rhythms superbly convey an atmosphere of joy and festivity.

Richly scored for brass and percussion to create splendor and power, it also features the beautiful tones of oboes and horns.

While the original was performed by a military band, modern performances often add strings for a fuller, richer sound.

A refreshing piece that makes you forget the summer heat—perfect to accompany an elegant afternoon tea.