Georg Friedrich Händel, also known as George Frideric Handel, was a German-born composer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Baroque era. He was born in Halle, Germany in 1685 and showed a talent for music at a young age. He received his early musical education from his father and later studied law at the University of Halle.
However, Handel's true passion was music and he left law to pursue a career as a composer. He traveled to Italy where he studied under some of the most renowned composers of the time and gained recognition for his operas and oratorios.
In 1710, Handel moved to London where he quickly became popular for his operas and instrumental works. He also composed many pieces for royal occasions, including the famous Water Music which was performed on a barge for King George I on the River Thames.
Handel's most famous work is undoubtedly his oratorio Messiah, which is still widely performed today. It premiered in Dublin in 1742 and has since become one of the most beloved choral works in history.
Throughout his career, Handel composed over 40 operas, numerous oratorios, concertos, anthems, and other vocal compositions.
