Subject
Handel, George Frideric, 1685-1759 Books
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Edward J. (Edward Joseph) Dent
Handel
"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.
Romain Rolland
Handel
"Handel" by Romain Rolland is a biographical account that delves into the life and works of the renowned composer George Frederick Handel, written in the early 20th century. This work aims to provide a concise sketch of Handel's musical journey, exploring not only his artistic technique but also the influences that shaped his career and the historical context of the time. The opening of the work introduces readers to the familial background of Handel, detailing his origins in Halle and the characters of his parents. It describes the early conflicts between Handel's musical aspirations and his father's wishes for him to study law, setting the stage for his eventual emergence as a musical prodigy against the backdrop of his father's opposition. Additionally, the narrative highlights his formative years under the mentorship of his first music teacher, Friedrich Wilhelm Zachau, emphasizing the development of his musical foundation and the early signs of his extraordinary talent. This rich context provides a glimpse into the complexities of Handel's path to greatness and invites further exploration of his influential role in the history of music.
Herbert F. (Herbert Francis) Peyser
George Frideric Handel
"George Frideric Handel" by Herbert F. Peyser is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book examines the life and music of the illustrious composer George Frideric Handel, detailing his contributions to the world of classical music and the various trials and triumphs of his career. It offers insights into his upbringing, musical development, and the cultural context in which he created his masterpieces, including the renowned "Messiah." At the start of the narrative, Peyser introduces Handel's complex background, touching on his family's situation in Halle and the friction between his musical aspirations and his father's disapproval. The opening details the formative years of Handel as he navigates his early exposure to music, the influence of his mother, and the critical moment when he receives permission to pursue music seriously after impressing a duke with his organ skills. The text sets the stage for Handel’s eventual departure from legal studies at university to fully embrace a career in music, leading to his initial successes in Germany and beyond, all of which foreshadow his monumental impact on the world of opera and oratorio.
Thomas Hanly Ball
Sketch of Handel and Beethoven Two Lectures, Delivered in the Lecture Hall of the Wimbledon Village Club, on Monday Evening, Dec. 14, 1863; and Monday Evening, Jan. 11, 1864
"Sketch of Handel and Beethoven" by Thomas Hanly Ball is a biographical work consisting of two lectures delivered in the early 1860s. The book examines the lives and contributions of two towering figures in classical music: George Frederick Handel and Ludwig van Beethoven. Written during the Victorian era, it likely reflects the cultural and intellectual currents of the time, offering insights into the significance of music and its celebrated composers. The content of the book weaves together biographical sketches of Handel and Beethoven, detailing their formative years, struggles, and eventual triumphs as musicians. Ball discusses Handel's early life, his passion for music against his father's wishes, and his landmark compositions, such as "The Messiah." Similarly, he explores Beethoven's journey, from his childhood in Bonn to his development as a composer in Vienna, while accentuating his personal challenges, including his eventual deafness. Through anecdotes, analyses of their works, and reflections on their legacies, the author paints a vivid portrait of these artists, emphasizing the impact of their music on society and their enduring relevance in the world of classical music.
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