Composer Focus with George Frideric Handel

Did you know that February marks the birthday of famous Baroque composer George Frideric Handel?

Handel was born on February 23, 1685 in Halle, Germany and is known for both his choral and instrumental music as well as his many keyboard works.

Keep reading for FREE resources that will introduce your students to this important Baroque composer...

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First, let's look at an overview of the Baroque period, when Handel lived and worked!

This handy information sheet will introduce students of all ages to the main characteristics of this style period and a few of the other important composers who were active during this time.

Download your free PDF copy of this information sheet HERE.

Biographies and Activity Sheets

• The "Making Music Fun" website has a kid-friendly, printable biography of Handel available HERE.
• The "Classics for Kids" website has several podcasts and activity sheets about Handel and his work HERE.

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Free Sheet Music
Help students at every level learn a piece by Handel with the free sheet music below! Click on the links to download your PDF copies of these pieces.

Elementary

• Hallelujah Chorus from "The Messiah" (Arr. Chrissy Ricker)

Late Elementary

• Joy to the World from "The Messiah" (Arr. Chrissy Ricker)
• ​Theme from "Water Music" (Arr. Andy Fling)

Early Intermediate

• Sarabande in D minor (Arr. Chrissy Ricker)
• ​Theme from "The Harmonious Blacksmith" (Arr. Gilbert DeBenedetti)

Intermediate

• He Shall Feed His Flock from "The Messiah" (Arr. Gilbert DeBenedetti)

Sheet Music Available for Purchase
One of Handel's most familiar works today is his "Passacaglia," the theme from the final movement of his Harpsichord Suite No. 7 in G minor. This theme was later adapted by composer Johan Halvorsen, and the lovely "Handel-Halvorsen" piano version of this theme has become a favorite with pianists of all ages.

I have arrangements of this famous theme available for every level! Click on the images below for purchase information for any of these pieces.

Elementary (with teacher duet)

Late Elementary to Early Intermediate

Intermediate

Finally, below are performances of a few of Handel's works that students will enjoy:

What do you think? Do you teach Handel's music in your studio? What is your favorite piece by Handel? Let us know in the comments!