George Frideric Handel

February 23, 1685 – April 14, 1759

Composer

Saw all Heaven before him while composing the Hallelujah Chorus

Biography

German-born British Baroque composer famous for his operas, oratorios, and concertos. Best known for 'Messiah,' one of the most performed choral works in Western music.

Faith & Testimony

A committed Christian whose masterwork 'Messiah' sets to music the life of Jesus Christ from prophecy through resurrection. Upon completing the 'Hallelujah Chorus,' he reportedly said, 'I did think I did see all Heaven before me, and the great God Himself.'

Sources

George Frideric Handel — Wikipedia — Biography including composition of Messiah
Messiah (Handel) — Wikipedia — Detailed history of the oratorio and its biblical text
Handel's Messiah: Comfort for God's People — By Calvin Stapert. Explores the theological depth of Handel's masterwork