The Young Handel

The Liebfrauenkirche in Halle

On Zachau's death, J. S. Bach applied for the post of organist at the Liebrauenkirche, but the Church authorities attempted to impose such absurd conditions that Bach withdrew his application.

The Life of Handel (continued)

Learning from Zachau

On their return to Halle, Handel was put under the excellent tutelage of Friedrich Zachau (or Zachow), who was son of the Stadtmusikus of Leipzig and organist of the Liebfrauenkirche. Zachau had mastered a wide range of instruments, and was particularly expert on the organ and harpsichord. He was an ideal tutor for Handel, having a wide-ranging interest in different forms and types of music. His library contained much Italian music as well as German. At the age of nine, according to Mainwaring (who is probably a couple of years adrift), Handel composed a number of motets, fugues, sonatas and other works, including a set of trios for oboes and harpsichord.

Handel always spoke of his old tutor with fondness and respect. After Zachau’s death, Handel helped to support his widow.

The Death Georg Händel

Handel’s father died in 1697, just over a week before the young Handel’s twelfth birthday. Although this presumably put the family finances under some strain, Handel was able to continue with his musical studies. In March 1702, he was appointed organist to the Cathedral Church in Halle. However, in the following year he left Halle for Hamburg.

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