Georg Friedrich Handel, a German-born composer known as a major figure of the late Baroque period.
Despite parental opposition, he immersed himself in music, and from a young age his extraordinary talent was evident—he surpassed his teachers in composition, organ, harpsichord, and violin.
In this article, we present a ranking of Georg Friedrich Handel’s most popular works.
Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or not, be sure to check it out!
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.
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.
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.