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

“Ombra mai fu” from the opera “Xerxes”Georg Friedrich Händel

Ombra Mai Fu Cécilia Bartoli

An aria from Act I of Handel’s opera Xerxes.

King Xerxes I of Persia, resting comfortably in the shade of a tree, sings of his love for the plane tree’s shade, declaring that never before has there been such dear, gentle, and pleasant shade.

It’s a piece that evokes dappled sunlight, a gentle breeze, and the enveloping comfort of a soothing canopy of leaves.

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“Alla Hornpipe” from Water MusicGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Water Music – Alla Hornpipe (Harty)

One piece from the orchestral suites composed by George Frideric Handel in 1717.

Said to have been written for a boating party on the River Thames, this work is characterized by its bright and splendid melodies.

In a dance-like movement featuring trumpets and horns, its lively, rhythmic character is striking.

It is frequently performed at weddings and celebrations, and is widely used as background music in films and television.

It’s also perfect as graduation ceremony BGM, especially for entrance scenes where you want to create a festive atmosphere.

Highly recommended for those who wish to celebrate a new beginning with a cheerful, forward-looking spirit.

Aria “Let Me Weep” from the opera RinaldoGeorg Friedrich Händel

Lascia ch’io pianga (Händel’s opera Rinaldo); Voices of Music with Kirsten Blaise, soprano

A piece from the opera Rinaldo, composed in 1711 by Baroque master George Frideric Handel.

It portrays the feelings of the heroine Almirena, who has been taken captive.

The work features a graceful melody over an accompaniment of strings and basso continuo.

Though simple, its powerful music highlights the singer’s emotional expression.

Since its premiere in 1711, it has been loved around the world, and in Japan it was used as an insert song in the TV dramas Botan to Bara and Churasan.

Its melody, which conveys a sense of hope even amid sorrow, is sure to resonate in the heart.

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.

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.

“Hallelujah Chorus” from the oratorio MessiahGeorg Friedrich Händel

No39 Hallelujah! – MESSIAH – Händel – Solti

Handel’s Messiah conducted by Georg Solti with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Along with Bach, he is a representative composer of the Baroque era.

He primarily wrote music for the theater, such as operas and oratorios.

“Messiah” refers to the Savior and tells the story of Jesus Christ.

Organ Concerto No. 6, HWV 294, First MovementGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Organ Concerto No. 6, 1st Movement (HWV 294) (Piano Score)

Georg Friedrich Handel, a Baroque master who made major contributions in opera, oratorio, anthem, concerto grosso, and organ concerto, is especially known for creating the genres of the English oratorio and the organ concerto, and for introducing a new style to English church music—significantly shaping the development of Baroque music.

One of his notable works, Organ Concerto No.

6, HWV 294, was performed as part of the premiere of Handel’s Alexander’s Feast.

The first movement is distinguished by its accessible melodies and bright character, with a simple structure that makes it especially recommended for newcomers to classical music.