Georg Friedrich Handel was a German-British composer born on February 23, 1685, in Halle, Germany. He is best known for his operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. Handel's most famous work, the oratorio Messiah, premiered in 1742 and remains a staple in classical music today. In addition to Messiah, Handel composed numerous other significant works, including Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks. He spent much of his career in London, where he became a prominent figure in the music scene. Handel's influence on Western classical music is profound, and his compositions continue to be celebrated worldwide.