Handel

by Edward J. (Edward Joseph) Dent

"Handel" by Edward J. Dent is a biographical account focusing on the life and career of the composer George Frederic Handel, written during the early 20th century. This work outlines the numerous influences, periods of hardship, and artistic triumphs that defined Handel's journey, particularly emphasizing the formative years of his life and the evolution of his music in relation to the broader musical landscape of Europe. The beginning of the book introduces us to Handel's early life, including his birth in Halle, his father's resistance to his musical ambitions, and his initial training under organist Friedrich Zachow. We learn about his formative experiences in Hamburg, where he encountered the vibrant world of opera and began to make his mark as a composer. The opening chapters detail his struggle to establish his identity as a musician, highlighted by his friendships, competitions, and early compositions, such as the opera "Almira." This foundation sets the stage for understanding how Handel would later become a dominant figure in the world of opera, showcasing his remarkable evolution from a young prodigy into a celebrated composer during the Baroque period.