The Life and Times of George Frideric Handel

Born in the same year (1685) and the same country (Germany) as Johann Sebastian Bach, young Georg Friedrich Händel (the original German spelling of his name) was playing the violin, harpsichord, oboe, and organ by the age of eleven. Bach and Handel became the most famous composers of what is today called Baroque music. There was a major difference between Bach and Handel, however. Whereas Bach came from a family that had produced musicians for generations, there was nothing in Handel's background that would suggest he would become a great composer. And, though Bach and Handel grew up so close to each other, the two would never meet. Throughout his long career, Handel continually produced wonderful instrumental music, including many great operas and oratorios which he produced for an eager audience. The most famous of these is his beloved Messiah. A private person, Handel left little information about his personal life. But we know a great deal about his music, which made a lasting impression that continues today.