Colour poster exhibition on composer Handel

The German Embassy in collaboration with the German-Maltese Circle is to launch a colour poster exhibition entitled Handel and his Birthplace Halle which has been prepared by the Handel Haus.

Handel Haus is also responsible for an annual Handel Festival in Halle.

Handel was born in Halle, Germany, in 1685, the same year as Bach. In 1703 he was appointed violinist-composer for Hamburg`s German opera. He returned to Hanover in 1710, to assume the post of Kapellmeister to the Elector (soon to become King George I of England).

In 1712 Handel moved to London where, upon the accession of the house of Hanover two years later, he gained immediate access to the royal circle of England.

In 1717 Handel succeeded Pepusch as chapel master to the Duke of Chandos. Handel`s London years were occupied primarily with the writing of Italian operas. After suffering a stroke and the failure of his operas (largely because of the success of the Beggar`s Opera), Handel wrote oratorios, including Messiah (1741).

Handel`s eyesight failed him in later years and he eventually became completely blind. In addition to operas and oratorios, Handel wrote Psalms, motets, anthems, passions, cantatas, instrumental chamber works, and works for keyboard, primarily harpsichord.

The exhibition will be opened by the German Ambassador, Georg Merten on Friday and will remain open till May 31 at Messina Palace, 141, St Christopher Street, Valletta.

Opening times are Monday to Friday from 8.30 a.m. till 12.30 p.m. and from 4.30 till 8.30 p.m. and on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and noon.

The exhibition is being organised as part of the Celebrating Handel festival by the British High Commission in Malta.