In the world of the arts there are those works that have won a special place in history, and whose universal appeal have transcended time and place. In the midst of the wealth of creations of artistic genius throughout time, certain works of art, while not obviously superior to other exceptionally worthy creations of the highest order...
Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351
Handel, of course, shares the bill with J. S. Bach as the two dominant, most respected, and influential composers of the late Baroque period—roughly the first half of the 1700s. And while they both exemplify the basic musical styles of the time, they differ in many important ways. Bach was a servant of the church...
Overture and Dances to Alcina
Handel, of course, along with J.S. Bach is one of the great masters of the late Baroque period (the early eighteenth century). Music from this time is not performed frequently on symphony concerts, but almost every music lover knows Handel’s Messiah, so that’s a good reference point for the style of this overture. ...