The Majesty of Music: Exploring the Grand Classical Music Compositions of Handel

Open the doors to a world of musical grandeur with George Frideric Handel! These engaging listening activities help students explore the beauty, complexity, and emotion of Handel's works. From his famous "Messiah" to the music of royal celebrations, students can learn all about the exquisite works from this iconic Baroque composer!

"Great resource that I used for my composer of the month bulletin. Thanks!" - Brooke B.

What's Included:

• 1-page Resource Guide - This guide will get you started quickly! Just print and play.
• Listening Sheet Star Rating Guide - A reference sheet illustrates the five-star rating system included in most listening sheets. Each frame has a description, with one being "okay" and 5 stars as "Wow!"
• Listening Sheets - There are no wrong answers! Students can note how they feel and what they imagine while listening to a selected piece of music. Choose from the musical instruments, nature scenes, colors, and more. There is a space for drawing and several non-musical elements to consider, such as animals and nature.
• Weather and Emotions Listening Sheets Weather is a recurring theme in classical music. Does a musical piece remind the listener of a snowy day or a cheerful sunny afternoon? Students can select the weather symbols that come to mind. Is the music happy or sad? A set of emotional characters allows your group to pick the feelings that best relate to a piece of music.
• 2 Biography Pages - Fact sheet (1 or 2 facts are already provided, a box to paste/draw the composer's portrait, and a birthday box to color in and decorate cupcakes! A duplicate blank page is included for students to do their own research.
• Composer Research Sheet - Students can use their favorite reference materials to compile a full page of facts about the composer's home country. Some of the research options include capital, continent, population, food, and more.
• Composer Rating Activity - There are more options to profile the composer on the rating sheet, including which season and musical style they belong to. This can also be used as a listening sheet or as a bulletin board display.
• Word Composer Activity - The classic letter puzzle, students can use all the letters from the composer's full name to create new, shorter words and record their scores. Add a timer for an extra challenge.

Printable Listening Sheets Include: (two pages per piece)

1. Messiah, HWV 56
2. Water Music
3. Music for the Royal Fireworks
4. Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne
5. Alexander's Feast
6. The Harmonious Blacksmith
7. Concerti Grossi, Op. 6
8. Verdi Prati