Born in Halle, Germany he was organist of the Halle Cathedral at age 17, studied law, and worked as a violinist and keyboard player in the Hamburg opera orchestra.   He was appointed to the court of the Elector of Hanover in 1710, and later worked at the King's Theatre in London.  He received an annual salary of 200 pounds and lived in his London home for 36 years until his death in 1759.
There has been a meticulous restoration of the interior of his home  and recitals of baroque music take place every thursday and regularly at the weekends. Handel House Museum is at 25 Brook street W1K 4HB  www.handelhouse.org  www.handelhouse.org
Noted works include Saul - 1739, Israel in Egypt - 1739, and the Messiah - 1742.  
He is buried in Poet's Corner, Westminster Abbey, London