Messiah composer George Frideric Handel

George Frideric Handel | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 02, 2025

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Who is George Frideric Handel?

George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) was a prominent Baroque composer known for his remarkable contributions to the realm of opera and oratorio. His career began in Germany, where he initially faced opposition from his father regarding his musical aspirations. However, Handel’s dedication led him to make a significant impact in the music world, particularly during his time in London. He gained acclaim for his operas, including his debut work, "Almira", and his breakthrough opera, "Rinaldo". Despite the struggles he faced with changing musical tastes and health issues, Handel's adaptability enabled him to shift his focus to oratorios, ultimately leading to his most famous composition, "Messiah".

Handel's journey was marked by resilience and creativity, as he transformed the musical landscape of England and defied personal challenges, including strokes that impaired his eyesight. His oratorios resonated deeply with audiences, allowing him to maintain a successful career even as Italian opera waned in popularity. With almost 30 oratorios and nearly 50 operas to his name, Handel’s influence was profound, securing him a lasting legacy in classical music. His dedication to his craft and generous spirit at the time of his death further solidified his status as a revered figure in music history.

Early Life and Education

George Frideric Handel was born on February 23, 1685, in Halle, Saxony, Germany, to Georg and Dorothea Handel. From a young age, he exhibited a profound passion for music; however, his father was unenthusiastic, believing that a career in music would not provide a stable income. Despite his father's opposition, Handel's mother supported his musical pursuits, allowing him to develop his talents in secret. His early exposure to music came when he played the organ at the court of the Duke of Weissenfels, where he caught the attention of composer and organist Frideric Wilhelm Zachow, who became his mentor.

Under Zachow's guidance, Handel honed his skills on various instruments, including the organ, oboe, and violin, by the age of 10. While he initially followed his father’s wishes and enrolled in law studies at the University of Halle, it did not take long for him to realize that his true passion lay in music. By 1703, at just 18 years old, Handel fully committed to his musical career, accepting a position as a violinist at the Hamburg Opera's Goose Market Theater. During this time, he also taught music privately, sharing the knowledge he gained from his mentor, Zachow, and embarking on a path that would lead him to become one of the most prolific composers of his time.

Career Start: First Opera Almira

George Frideric Handel made an indelible mark on the world of music with the debut of his first opera, Almira, in 1705. This work catapulted him into the public eye, showcasing his remarkable talent and innovative approach to composition. Almira successfully ran for 20 performances, which not only established Handel as a noteworthy composer but also laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the realm of opera. His blend of dramatic storytelling and captivating melodies resonated with audiences, marking the beginning of a prolific career in the Baroque music scene.

Following the success of Almira, Handel continued to build his reputation in the opera genre by producing several more works while in England. By 1710, he transitioned to the vibrant music scene in London, where he composed Rinaldo, a production that would further solidify his status as a leading composer. His time in London allowed him to explore new creative avenues, collaborating with influential figures and engaging with the city’s cultural milieu. This period not only showcased his operatic prowess but also ignited a passion for future compositions that would ultimately lead to the creation of his legendary oratorios.

Success: Master of the Orchestra at Royal Academy

In 1719, George Frideric Handel achieved a significant milestone in his career by being appointed as the Master of the Orchestra at the Royal Academy of Music in London, the first Italian opera company in the city. This prestigious position allowed him to showcase his remarkable talents and solidify his reputation in the competitive world of opera. Handel eagerly accepted the role, dedicating himself to composing numerous operas that catered to the tastes of the English royalty, including Queen Anne and King George I. His tenure at the Royal Academy marked a period of prolific creativity, yet the financial struggles of the academy presented ongoing challenges.

Even though the operas produced during this era were popular, they often lacked the financial success needed to sustain the Academy. Amidst these difficulties, Handel's innovative spirit shone through as he experimented with the operatic form, ultimately leading him to establish his own company, the New Royal Academy of Music, in 1727. This bold move allowed him to produce his own works and take creative control, including offerings of new operas that he believed the public would enjoy. Although the Italian opera format began to wane in popularity, Handel adapted by turning his focus towards oratorios, a shift that would define his later success and legacy.

Transition to Oratorios and Major Works

As Italian opera began to lose its appeal in London, George Frideric Handel made a significant shift in his compositional focus towards oratorios. This transition not only showcased his adaptability as a composer but also allowed him to capitalize on a new and growing musical trend. Oratorios, large-scale concert works often based on biblical themes, required less elaborate staging and presented a more straightforward musical narrative. Handel embraced this format, producing a remarkable series of oratorios that resonated deeply with audiences, establishing a new craze in London's music scene.

One of Handel's most significant accomplishments during this period was the creation of his oratorio, Messiah, which premiered in Dublin in 1742. Commissioned by Dublin’s Lord Lieutenant, the oratorio demonstrated Handel's innovative use of choral and orchestral elements, creating a powerful and moving experience for listeners. The work quickly gained acclaim and solidified Handel's reputation as a master composer, and it continues to be one of the most performed pieces in the choral repertoire today. Alongside Messiah, Handel produced other celebrated oratorios such as Samson, Judas Maccabeus, and Solomon, further contributing to his legacy as a monumental figure in Baroque music.

Personal Life: Never Married, No Children

George Frideric Handel lived a life largely devoted to his music, having never married or fathered children. His dedication to his art overshadowed personal relationships, and many who knew him admired his singular focus on composition and performance. Handel's commitment allowed him the freedom to travel and experiment with new styles and genres, crafting works that would resonate for centuries. Despite the absence of a traditional family life, he formed deep connections with other musicians and patrons and was known for his generosity toward friends and those less fortunate.

In his later years, Handel's philanthropic spirit shone through, as he left the majority of his estate to his servants and various charities upon his passing. Notably, he made provisions for his funeral expenses, ensuring that his loved ones would not face financial burdens due to his death. This act of kindness and his charitable inclinations, such as supporting the Foundling Hospital, reflect the compassionate side of the Baroque composer. Even in his absence, Handel's legacy continues, characterized not only by his monumental contributions to music but also by his generous nature.

Net Worth and Earning: Financial Impact of His Work

George Frideric Handel's financial impact from his work as a composer and musician was significant, marked by both peaks in income and periods of financial struggle. Throughout his career, Handel faced challenges due to shifting musical tastes, particularly as Italian opera fell out of favor in London. However, his transition to oratorios not only helped sustain his popularity but also proved to be a lucrative venture. The simplicity of oratorio productions, which required fewer resources than grand operas, allowed Handel to maintain a steady income stream.

Despite fluctuating fortunes, Handel was known for his financial generosity, leaving his estate to his servants and charities upon his death. He composed around 30 oratorios and nearly 50 operas, with his most famous work, "Messiah," becoming a staple of concert programming and contributing to his lasting legacy. Handel’s skill as a businessman allowed him to navigate the complexities of the music industry of his time, ultimately securing both his financial stability and his place as a cornerstone of Baroque music.