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About The PHS
A Fansite Dedicated to George Frideric Handel
Created by the Portland Handel Society
Most online resources for classical composers provide only basic and encyclopedic information, rather than being true fan pages. Our website is designed to be useful and entertaining for all levels of interest, and to help preserve the works and memory of this musical genius. Ours is also the only site that currently lists Handel concerts throughout the world.
Last updated 02/23/2010:
Update Happy Birthday Handel and PHS. Handel would be 325 years old today, and this website turns 3. I plan to add new features very shortly, just as soon as I get back from seeing this concert in Chicago. Should be a good one. Update - 2009 has come and gone. Check out our worldwide concerts pages to find upcoming Handel events in 2010. *********
George Frideric Handel was born on the 23rd of February 1685. He lived a long and prolific life, completing over thirty operas and twenty oratorios, among other works. Here we are dedicated to encouraging the performance of these works, and spreading knowledge of this wonderful, but often neglected composer.
How, one might ask, can we deem Handel "neglected" when his work is played by orchestras everywhere? The answer is quite simple: that given the quantity and quality of Handel’s music, only a small fragment is performed regularly, and frequently it is not his best. This is particularly true in the USA, though in recent decades Handel's music has begun to win the audience it deserves.
Goals of this website:
For the Handel Newbie - Anyone wishing to learn more about Handel and his works should begin with our FAQ section and these pages. A biography and list of selected pieces (and where to find them) will help you to become better acquainted with his life and music. We also have a links section to help you locate further information.
For the Handel Fanatic - Though we cannot offer too much that is new and scholarly, we have some features for fanatics to explore. Share stories about Handel, vote for your favorite works, and participate in other such activities with kindred spirits. We will also strive to keep a full listing of Handel concerts throughout the world. And for those seeking more, we are happy to provide links to other Handel sites with comprehensive biographies, work chronologies, recording discographies, MIDI files, and libretto texts.
For Local Fans - For those around Portland, or the West Coast of the US, we will try to keep you informed about local Handel-related events. If we generate more interest it will encourage more performances. So please, if you know anyone who likes or loves Handel, mention our website.
We appreciate any feedback so please do not hesitate to email us at . Enjoy your visit!
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