Handel's Works Only a few of Handel's works originated in his native Saxony. At the beginning of his career, he composed sacred music in Halle and wrote an opera in Hamburg. However, his full artistic potential only developed during his time in Italy. After working as Kapellmeister in Hanover, he began a freelance career in London. His return to the German language came later, inspired by the poetry of Brockes.
In Hamburg, Handel worked closely with Brockes, whose poems he set to music. These texts depicted the goodness of God in nature. Handel likely arranged the arias for performances in Hamburg. His connections to Mattheson and Telemann leave room for interpretation. The only surviving manuscript of the arias is in the British Library. Handel's unique blend of different styles is revealed in the music of these pieces.
A performance with a solo violin and a soprano singer was probably planned. The arias demonstrate Handel's profound sensitivity to nature and religiosity – each one, such as "Sweet Flowers Ambergris," possesses its own distinct character. Authentic instrumentation played a significant role for Handel in his sonatas. Only three oboe sonatas can be definitively attributed to him, two of which were composed in London. His passion for playing the oboe is clearly reflected in them.