Handel (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

R. A. Streatfeild

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0656153083 ISBN 13: 9780656153084

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

Discover the life behind the music—a vivid, accessible portrait of Handel and the world he lived in.

This authoritative narrative chronicles the composer’s long career, from early triumphs to the stubborn struggles that tested his health, finances, and reputation. It situates Handel’s music within the social and political scene of 18th‑century Britain, tracing rivalries, patronage, and the bold risks he took to keep his art alive. The book blends personal detail with historical context, offering a clear view of how a great musician navigated fame, bankruptcy, and changing tastes while shaping the course of Baroque music.

Using brisk narrative and careful sourcing, it guides readers through key episodes—the pressures of concerts, the tug‑of‑war with critics and rivals, and the endurance that enabled Handel to prevail and reinvent his career in later years. Readers will gain a sense of the man behind the masterpieces and the era that framed his work.

• Clear, compelling biography that links Handel’s life to his music.
• Balanced discussion of career highs, financial troubles, and health challenges.
• Accessible explanations of performance practices, patronage, and public opinion.
• Contextual chapters that connect Handel’s choices to 18th‑century cultural life.

Ideal for readers of music history, biographies, and fans of Handel’s enduring legacy.

Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0656153083
• ISBN 13: 9780656153084
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 410