When Handel reached England he found himself already well known there. The English people knew his operas, and liked them so much that Handel concluded to stay.
But to his surprise and confusion it happened while he was in London that the very Elector of Hanover became George I, King of England. Handel expected he would fare badly with the king for not having returned as Capellmeister to Germany. But a friend arranged the matter so that Handel should compose some music for the king's coronation, hoping thereby to please his majesty.
He composed twenty-five pieces, called Water Music. A boat containing the players followed that in which the king sat. When the music was performed the king asked who composed it. This led to Handel's being invited into the royal boat, where he again won the king's favor.
WATER MUSIC.
Handel greatly wished to give opera in London and devote his time to it as composer. For many years the writing and staging of operas took all of Handel's time and thought, but he was not destined to make it a true success. Handel was a very fine performer at the keyboard.
HANDEL AT THE KEYBOARD.
Once again Handel visited his native land. On returning to England, which was to be his home for the future, he was asked by a wealthy gentleman, the Duke of Chandos, to become composer at the ducal residence. Handel accepted this offer and composed much beautiful music, which some day we shall hear.
Handel was much beloved in England and was received at court.