George Frideric Handel
Collected Documents

The life and career of George Frideric Handel are presented in this multi-volume publication, through the most up-to-date, fully annotated collection of documents.

Donald Burrows (Edited by), Helen Coffey (Edited by), John Greenacombe (Edited by), Anthony Hicks (Edited by)

9781107080249, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 29 January 2026

768 pages
25.3 x 18.4 x 4.1 cm, 1.61 kg

The life and career of George Frideric Handel, one of the most frequently performed Baroque composers, are thoroughly documented in a wide variety of contemporary sources. This multi-volume publication, the most up-to-date, fully annotated collection of these documents, presents them chronologically, providing an essential resource for anyone interested in Handel and his music. The collection also gives insights into broader topics such as court life, theatre history, public concerts, and music publishing. Volume 5 begins with the composition of Handel's last original scores for his London oratorio seasons – The Choice of Hercules and Jephtha. The death of the Prince of Wales curtailed his 1751 season and deteriorating eyesight delayed the completion of Jephtha. Nevertheless, his annual Lenten oratorios and Messiah performances at the Foundling Hospital continued. At the same time, his music was increasingly heard in the provinces and referred to in the new literary genre of the novel.

Introduction
The documents: 1750 – 1755
1750 – 1751
1751 – 1752
1752 – 1753
1753 – 1754
1754 – 1755
Libraries and archives
Bibliography
Index of Handel's works
Index of Persons
General Index.

Subject Areas: Baroque music [c 1600 to c 1750 AVGC3]