In: Accounting
George Frideric Handel composed operas, oratorios and instrumentals. His 1741 work, 'Messiah,' is among the most famous oratorios in history.
George Frideric Handel's compositions include 42 operas; 29
oratorios; more than 120 cantatas, trios and duets; numerous arias;
chamber music; a large number of ecumenical pieces; odes and
serenatas; and sixteen organ concerti. His most famous work, the
Messiah oratorio with its "Hallelujah" chorus, is among
the most popular works in choral music and has become a centerpiece
of the Christmas season. Also popular are the Op. 3 and Op. 6
Concerti Grossi, as well as "The Cuckoo and the
Nightingale", in which birds are heard calling during passages
played in different keys representing the vocal ranges of two
birds. Also notable are his sixteen keyboard suites, especially The
Harmonious Blacksmith.
G.F. Handel introduced various previously uncommon musical
instruments in his works: the viola d'amore and violetta marina
(Orlando), the lute (Ode for St. Cecilia's Day),
three trombones (Saul), clarinets or small high cornets
(Tamerlano), theorbo, French horn (Water Music),
lyrichord, double bassoon, viola da gamba, bell chimes, positive
organ, and harp (Giulio Cesare, Alexander's
Feast).
G.F. Handel's works have been catalogued and are commonly referred
to by a HWV number. For example, Handel's Messiah is also
known as HWV 56.