George Frideric Handel

Musical context

Late Baroque · c. 1650–1750

Courts, churches, and commercial theaters sustained contrasting musical careers across Europe. Bach developed intricate counterpoint within Lutheran musical life, Handel worked in London’s theatrical and concert world, and Vivaldi wrote for Venetian institutions and audiences. Their music extended earlier Baroque practices through increasingly established tonal relationships, while patronage and public demand encouraged concertos, operas, and other instrumental and vocal forms. Explore the era →

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