George Frideric Handel

Music German-British 1685 – 1759 99 quotes

A German-born British Baroque composer, famous for his operas, oratorios, anthems, and organ concertos, most notably 'Messiah'.

Quotes by George Frideric Handel

The soul of harmony resides in counterpoint.

Early writing 1705

England's theaters are my canvas.

Speech 1715

In adversity, music is my solace.

Reflection 1752

Water Music flows like the Thames.

Commission note 1717

Genius borrows from the past to innovate.

Aphorism

My oratorios preach without words.

Professional statement 1740

Youth's vigor fuels the symphony.

Early letter 1700

The public demands, the master supplies.

Witty remark 1725

Divine inspiration strikes like lightning.

On Messiah 1741

I live for the applause of angels.

Personal jest

Handel's fire is Italian, his structure German.

Self-assessment 1710

Music heals the wounds of the spirit.

Reflection 1750

From boyhood organist to royal composer.

Autobiographical

The Hallelujah chorus is joy incarnate.

Description 1742

Blindness teaches reliance on memory.

Letter 1753

I have fought the good fight of music.

Deathbed words 1759

Opposition only sharpens the blade of creation.

Comeback 1737

The art of fugue is life's intricate dance.

Observation

My legacy is in the hearts of listeners.

Final reflection 1758