George Frideric Handel

About this course:

Born in Germany, refined in Italy, and celebrated in Britain, Handel's music transcends borders and captures the spirit of an era characterized by grandeur, complexity, and expressive depth. In this course, we explore the life, work, and enduring impact of George Frideric Handel, one of the 18th century's most influential composers. Through guided listening, historical context, and analysis, we delve into Handel’s most celebrated works, including Messiah, Water Music, and Music for the Royal Fireworks, as well as his refined keyboard and other chamber compositions that reveal his skill in smaller, more intimate forms. We also examines Handel's compositional techniques, his role in shaping English music, and his influence on subsequent generations of composers.