George Frideric Handel
Video Source | Denise Hewitt
Duration: 1:48
G. F. Handel’s “Air” from the Water Music Suite (1) is a popular wedding music choice. It was composed in 1717 and will be played during the signing of the wedding register. Handel’s Water Music premiered in July 1717 for a Thames Water Pageant & Concert requested by King George I. A modern version of the Water Music will be played at Queen Elizabeth II’s Jubilee on June 3, 2012, to celebrate her 60 years as British Monarch.
About the composer…

Handel’s musical career took him to various cities across Europe, including Italy where he composed numerous operas and oratorios. However, it was in London that he truly made his mark. Handel became the director of the Royal Academy of Music and composed some of his most famous works, including the oratorio “Messiah” and the opera “Julius Caesar”.
Handel’s works are characterized by their grandeur, complexity, and emotional depth. His compositions often feature intricate melodies, powerful orchestration, and a wide range of musical styles. Handel was a master of both vocal and instrumental music, and his works continue to be celebrated and performed in concert halls around the world.
In conclusion, George Frideric Handel was a prolific composer whose contributions to classical music are still revered today. His life and musical career spanned continents and genres, and his works continue to captivate audiences with their beauty and artistry. Handel’s legacy as a composer is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.