George Frideric Handel was a German-born Baroque composer who settled in London in 1712 and became a naturalised British subject in 1727. He is celebrated for his Italian operas, English oratorios, anthems, concerti grossi, and organ concertos. Influenced by German choral traditions and the Italian Baroque, he helped shape “high Baroque” music, elevating Italian opera in England and establishing the English oratorio tradition. Major works still widely performed include Messiah, Water Music, Music for the Royal Fireworks, and the coronation anthem Zadok the Priest, used at every British coronation since 1727. Born in Halle, Handel received early training from organist Friedrich Wilhelm Zachow, then worked in Hamburg’s opera scene. He travelled to Italy, where he gained acclaim and produced successful operas. After moving to London, he achieved major success with Rinaldo and became a leading figure in the city’s operatic life. Facing financial pressures in the 1730s, he shifted focus to English choral works, creating landmark oratorios such as Saul, Israel in Egypt, and Samson. In later life, he became blind.