George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)

    Handel was a prolific composer of all genres used in the Baroque Era, including oratorio, opera, orchestral and chamber works. During his youth, Handel received extensive instruction in organ, keyboard, and counterpoint. With this knowledge, Handel was able to extend his mastery of the fugue into the choral setting. A contemporary of Bach, Handel is best known for his oratorio, Messiah.