Georg Friedrich Handel Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

From Samson HWV 57: ‘Return, O Lord of Hosts’Georg Friedrich Händel41rank/position

Handel: Samson (Oratorio), HWV 57 – “Return, O Lord of Hosts” | Classical Music for Work/BGM

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.

Samson HWV 57 ‘Overture’Georg Friedrich Händel42rank/position

Overture: Handel: Samson

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.

Chaconne in G majorGeorg Friedrich Händel43rank/position

George Frideric Handel. Chaconne in G major, HWV 435

A chaconne is one of the instrumental forms used in the Baroque era, a dance characterized by a stately triple meter.

This work, included in the Second Book of Harpsichord Suites published in 1733, is a masterpiece for keyboard composed of 21 variations.

From a simple theme, the rhythm and harmony gradually change, revealing a wide range of expressions.

With sprightly variations, emotional developments, and a brilliant finale, its roughly 12-minute duration never wears on the listener.

It is a highly recommended piece for those who want to savor the elegance and virtuosity of Baroque music.

Chaconne in G major, HWV 435Georg Friedrich Händel44rank/position

Handel: Chaconne in G major, HWV 435

The Baroque-era composer George Frideric Handel began composing around the age of nine and quickly displayed his talent.

Among the masterpieces he created during his eventful life is the set of variations in chaconne form, the Chaconne in G major.

The variations unfold one after another as if viewing the theme from multiple angles, giving the impression that Handel’s wellspring of creativity never runs dry.

Its graceful, brilliant passages bring out the piano’s appeal to the fullest.

Though it demands advanced technique to perform, the more one practices, the more its rich musicality blossoms—truly a masterpiece.

Harpsichord Suite No. 2, HWV 437, No. 4: SarabandeGeorg Friedrich Händel45rank/position

Handel: Harpsichord Suite No. 2, HWV 437 — No. 4, Sarabande

A harpsichord is a keyboard instrument used during the Baroque era, also known as a cembalo or clavecin.

This piece is one of the most famous among Handel’s works; it is not only performed as a standalone piece but has also been arranged for film soundtracks and popular songs.

Harp Concerto in B-flat majorGeorg Friedrich Händel46rank/position

Handel – Harp Concerto in B flat Major, Morgan Mackenzie Short, 2014 Young Artist Concerto Winner

The first harp concerto in music history is said to have been created in the 18th century by Handel.

With its brilliant, bright strings and the harp’s transparent resonance, it is a delightful piece to the ear and remains a very famous work that is still often performed on its own today.

Harp Concerto in B-flat major, HWV 294Georg Friedrich Händel47rank/position

George Frideric Handel – Concerto No.6 in B♭ major, HWV 294 (Op.4)

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.

Violin Sonata No. 5, Op. 1 No. 14Georg Friedrich Händel48rank/position

Handel Violin Sonata No.2 in G minor, op.1-10

Most of Handel’s violin sonatas are in major keys, but among the minor-key works, this sonata is well known.

It lends itself readily to arrangement, yet it is filled with passages that demand right-hand technique and it is difficult to intonate.

Conversely, it is a piece that feels very rewarding to tackle.

Passee piedGeorg Friedrich Händel49rank/position

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.

Passacaglia in G minorGeorg Friedrich Händel50rank/position

Handel-Halvorsen – Passacaglia – Jascha Heifetz, Gregor Piatigorsky

Passacaglia is a musical form that originated in an old Spanish dance and was widely used from the 17th to the 18th century.

Set in a gentle triple meter, it features a plaintive melody performed with expressive nuance.

It is a dramatic piece that shines with layered violin timbres.