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 His Popular Pieces (41–50)
Hallelujah from the oratorio MessiahGeorg Friedrich Händel
Handel’s Messiah is a masterpiece of oratorio that stands alongside Bach’s St.
Matthew Passion, and it is famous in European concerts for the audience giving a standing ovation during the “Hallelujah Chorus.” This custom stems from the British tradition of standing when songs praising God are performed.
From the opera ‘The World of the Moon’: ‘People have discretion.’Georg Friedrich Händel
Patricia Petibon, a French coloratura soprano, is an artist of remarkable versatility in both acting and singing, whose talent was discovered by William Christie, founder of the period-instrument ensemble Les Arts Florissants.
The famous aria “Ragion nell’alma siede” from Haydn’s opera Il mondo della luna is a piece that showcases Petibon’s allure as a specialist in Baroque opera.
Harp Concerto in B-flat major, HWV 294Georg Friedrich Händel
Georg Friedrich Handel’s Harp Concerto in B-flat major, HWV 294, premiered in 1736.
At the time, alongside his operas and oratorios, Handel introduced his own concertos, bringing a fresh breeze to the musical world.
This work, written for the harp, is one of them; its graceful sonorities—woven from delicate melodies and harmonies—continue to captivate listeners even today.
Perfect for a relaxing evening or a gentle morning awakening, this masterpiece is sure to reaffirm the healing power of music.
Passacaglia Harpsichord Suite No. 7 (HWV 432)Georg Friedrich Händel
This piece encapsulates the charm of Baroque music.
Built on a four-bar theme, it unfolds through 15 variations in which rhythm, melody, and harmony are artfully transformed.
Amid its majestic atmosphere, a rich musicality shines through, gripping the listener’s heart.
It is also popular as a keyboard study piece and is recommended for those who have just begun learning the piano.
As you savor the process by which complex music emerges from a simple theme, you can experience the profound depth of Baroque music.
It is a work that conveys the timeless appeal of Handel’s music.
Cantata “Alexander’s Feast”Georg Friedrich Händel
Originally composed as an ode, the work premiered in 1736.
It sets music to a poem by the English poet John Dryden, a piece that was reportedly very popular even during Handel’s lifetime.
Within its limpid melodies lies a music that possesses the power to uplift the spirit.
Chorale “Jesus Is My Joy” in G minorGeorg Friedrich Händel
Originally, a chorale referred to a hymn sung in the Lutheran Church of Christianity, and later it came to be used as a musical form.
Despite its relatively simple melody, the piece conveys the solemnity and serenity characteristic of sacred music.
Come Again to Please Me (from the opera “Alcina”)Georg Friedrich Händel
The dazzlingly beautiful “Tornami a vagheggiar,” which sings of the feeling of love, is a famous da capo aria from one of the masterworks of opera by the great Baroque composer George Frideric Handel, Alcina.