Georg Friedrich Handel Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Gavotte in G majorGeorg Friedrich Händel36rank/position

George Frideric HANDEL: Gavotte in G major, HWV 491

A gavotte is a classical dance piece that originated from French folk dance and became highly popular at the French court during the reign of Louis XIV.

Its gently flowing rhythm and melodious harmonies create a soothing experience for listeners.

Harpsichord Suite Book I No. 5 in E major, HWV 430, No. 4: “Air and Variations (The Harmonious Blacksmith)”Georg Friedrich Händel37rank/position

Handel: The Harmonious Blacksmith, pianist Yuki Kondo / Händel: The Harmonious Blacksmith, Yuki Kondo

George Frideric Handel, the Baroque master known as the “mother of music.” After establishing himself in Hamburg and Italy, Handel moved his base to London, where he wrote a set of suites for the harpsichord—the keyboard instrument of the time—known as the Suites de Pièces pour le Clavecin, First Collection.

Among them, the especially famous “The Harmonious Blacksmith” is beloved for its bright, cheerful, and lively character.

A simplified version with fewer notes is included in many beginner piano texts, making it a familiar piece at student recitals.

With its friendly melody that invites a relaxed and pleasant listening experience, this work is highly recommended for those looking to start the piano, as well as for parents who want their children to discover the joy of playing.

Harpsichord Suite, Second Collection, No. 4 in D minor, HWV 437 — No. 4 “Sarabande”Georg Friedrich Händel38rank/position

Handel: Suite HWV 437 “Sarabande” / ヘンデル：組曲集より “サラバンド” HWV 437

George Frideric Handel, who had a profound influence on the development of Baroque music.

The Sarabande from No.

4 in his Second Set of Harpsichord Suites, written for the keyboard instrument harpsichord, is a compelling work that combines deep emotion and a solemn atmosphere while leaving considerable room for improvisation.

In performance, characteristically Baroque expression is required, such as adding distinctive ornamentation and weaving in subtle changes of tempo.

Alongside solid technique, it is a piece that tests a performer’s expressive ability to convey rich feeling.

Courante in B minorGeorg Friedrich Händel39rank/position

HWV 489

This piece is a courante, one of the Baroque dances at which Handel excelled.

The courante is a classical dance that emerged from the late Renaissance into the Baroque period, marked by a somewhat brisk rhythm.

Written in B minor, this work balances elegance and emotion to exquisite effect.

It is often performed on piano or harpsichord and is characterized by a flowing pulse and contrapuntal elements.

The rich lower-middle register carries the main melody, and despite its brevity, the piece leaves a refined, courtly impression.

It’s recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those who want to discover the charm of Baroque music.

Chorale “Jesus Is My Joy” in G minorGeorg Friedrich Händel40rank/position

CHORALE IN G MOLL FOR HARPSICHORD JESU MEINE FREUDE HWV 480

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.

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.