George Frideric Handel's "Water Music" is a collection of orchestral movements, often considered some of the most splendid and festive music of the Baroque era. Among these, the Suite No. 2 in D Major stands out with its vibrant and jubilant character, perfect for royal occasions.
The "Water Music" suites were first performed on July 17, 1717, at the behest of King George I of Great Britain. The king, seeking to display his opulence and the grandeur of his reign, organized a lavish water party on the River Thames. Handel's music, performed by 50 musicians on a barge following the royal barge, serenaded the king and his guests as they glided along the river from Whitehall to Chelsea.
The premiere of "Water Music" was an immense success, reportedly so much that King George I requested multiple encores of the performance. This suite, along with the others, solidified Handel's reputation as one of the leading composers in London. The enduring popularity of "Water Music" speaks to its universal appeal and its masterful depiction of baroque grandeur. To this day, Suite No. 2 in D Major remains a favorite in concert halls and recordings worldwide.
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Enjoy this vibrant piece of musical history and let the resplendent sounds of Handel's "Water Music" transport you to a time of royal pageantry and majestic celebrations on the River Thames.
Music: www.chosic.com/free-music/all/
by Bath Festival Orchestra