Handel’s strange boyhood, clouded by the fact that his father did not want him to become a musician, makes for a story of absorbing reading. Soon he was playing before the greatest music lovers of Europe, dukes and kings included.

The selections of Handel’s music included here are those which are best understood and most apt to be mastered by young musicians who wish to follow in his footsteps. Opal Wheeler has once again given a highly satisfying and complete musical biography.