String Quartet String Quartet - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.552017 Composed by George Friderick Handel (1685-1756). Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Baroque,Instructional,Standards,Wedding. 32 pages. Jmsgu3 #6053165. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.552017). Seven popular pieces from Handel's Water Music - most often requested for weddings. Score: 16 pages, Duration 12:15. Players read from the score - the most extended piece is only three pages long.Contents:1. Air2. Minuet3. Bourrée4. Hornpipe5. Rigaudon6. Minuet7. AndanteHandel's Water Music is one of his most famous compositions. It was written for King George I's pleasure barge trip along the River Thames in 1717. The Water Music is divided into three suites, each containing a variety of movements. The music features a mix of dance rhythms such as minuets, bourrees, hornpipes, lively fanfares, and slower, more stately airs. Its combination of light and playful music with grandeur and pomp has made it one of the most beloved pieces of classical music. Many orchestras have performed Water Music and are famous for special occasions like coronations and weddings. Its enduring popularity has helped to make it one of Handel's most famous and beloved compositions.Weddings during the time of Handel were usually quite extravagant affairs. The ceremony was typically held in a church and was accompanied by a full orchestra. Handel's compositions were frequently used to provide the music for the ceremony. This was especially true in London, where Handel was based, and his music was trendy. Handel wrote several pieces for use at weddings, including the famous Wedding Anthem and the Wedding Anthem in D Major. Handel's music provided a sense of grandeur and elegance to the proceedings and was often used to give the wedding an extra special touch.The festivities following the ceremony were also often lavish, with a large feast and plenty of dancing. Handel's music was often used to provide the background music for the dancing, and he wrote many dance suites specifically designed for this purpose. The bride and groom would usually have a special dance to the tune of Handel's Water Music, a trendy piece for the occasion. Guests at the wedding would be treated to various of Handel's works, ranging from his operas to his oratorios, which often had a spiritual or religious theme. Handel's music provided a sense of joy and celebration to the wedding and helped make it an occasion to remember.