Handel: A Classical Icon - for iPad/Mac/PC

The Open University

In commemoration of Handel's 250th anniversary, world renowned Handel scholar and Open University Professor Donald Burrows introduces one of the most famous composers of the eighteenth century. Devised for non-musicians and beginners, the 5 video and 5 audio tracks in this album explore the music that made Handel famous. His operas are classics of the Baroque style, his oratorios are the basis of English choral tradition, his music still played today at every monarch's coronation. This "Great Londoner" became an icon in his own lifetime. What is the secret of his success? What was one of Handel's performances like, and how powerful is his legacy?

Episodes

An introduction to Handel's background, his classic hits and his life in London.

Mar 22, 2009

3 min

Transcript -- Who is Handel?

An introduction to Handel's background, his classic hits and his life in London.

Mar 22, 2009

Handel's Opera

A taste of Handel's elaborate arias, dramatic plots and impressive stage scenery. Highlights from a modern ENO performance, and a preserved eighteenth century theatre.

Mar 22, 2009

5 min

Transcript -- Handel's Opera

A taste of Handel's elaborate arias, dramatic plots and impressive stage scenery. Highlights from a modern ENO performance, and a preserved eighteenth century theatre.

Mar 22, 2009

Handel's Church Music

Donald Burrows visits Handel's parish church in London and describes how Handel composed the most powerful Cathedral music Britain had ever heard.

Mar 22, 2009

4 min

Transcript -- Handel's Church Music

Donald Burrows visits Handel's parish church in London and describes how Handel composed the most powerful Cathedral music Britain had ever heard.

Mar 22, 2009

Handel's Oratorio

The story behind Handel's most famous oratorio, Messiah. What distinguishes an oratorio from an opera and what is special about Handel's oratorios?

Mar 22, 2009

5 min