Handel, though born in Germany, probably made most of his name for himself in London, England where he came to dominate the English music-making ``scene''. He composed a large number of operas (including Xerxes, which I only mention because I've seen and enjoyed it), but these did not tend to do so well, prompting a shift to the oratorio form. Pieces of his that are particular favourites of mine are his organ concerti, his Water-music and Fireworks-music, and the Messiah. The latter is probably his most famous work. It is a huge choral piece that includes the well-known Hallelujah Chorus. |
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