Discover the elegance, energy and theatrical flair of Handel’s Concerto Grosso in B-flat major, Op. 6 No. 7, performed by Sheffield Chamber Orchestra at our December 2026 concert.

Few composers understood the art of musical entertainment quite like George Frideric Handel. Whether writing grand operas, stirring oratorios or music for royal occasions, he had an extraordinary gift for combining memorable melodies, dramatic contrasts and irresistible rhythmic energy. His Concerto Grosso in B-flat major, Op. 6 No. 7, is a wonderful example of that talent.

Written in 1739 as part of Handel’s celebrated set of twelve Concerti Grossi, Op. 6, the work offers a fascinating glimpse into the musical world of eighteenth-century London. It is a piece full of character and variety, moving between graceful lyricism, lively counterpoint and the unmistakable theatricality that makes Handel’s music so distinctive.

A conversation between musicians

The concerto grosso was one of the most popular instrumental forms of the Baroque period. Rather than featuring a single soloist, as in a modern concerto, it sets a small group of leading players – known as the concertino – in conversation with the larger ensemble, or ripieno.

This interplay creates a constantly changing musical landscape. Themes are passed between groups, phrases are answered and echoed, and moments of intimate chamber-like conversation give way to fuller, more exuberant orchestral passages.

Handel makes particularly effective use of this contrast in his B-flat major concerto. The result is music that feels at once intimate and grand, with each section contributing to a lively and engaging musical dialogue.

Five movements, five different characters

One of the pleasures of this concerto is the variety of its five movements. Handel takes us on a journey through a succession of contrasting moods.

The opening Largo establishes an atmosphere of poise and elegance, before the music bursts into life with an energetic Allegro. Handel's characteristic interplay of melodic lines gives the faster music both sparkle and momentum.

A Largo e piano provides a more reflective moment. Its quieter, restrained character offers a welcome contrast, allowing the listener to appreciate the expressive beauty of Handel's writing.

The following Andante brings a graceful, flowing quality, before the concerto takes an unexpected turn with its final movement, a Hornpipe. This lively dance has a distinctly English flavour, with a buoyant rhythm and a wonderfully infectious sense of fun. It brings the work to a spirited and memorable conclusion.

Handel: the international composer who made London his home

Born in Halle, in what is now Germany, in 1685, Handel travelled widely before settling in London in 1712. He became one of the most celebrated musical figures of his age, eventually becoming a naturalised British citizen.

His career spanned opera, instrumental music and the great English oratorios, including Messiah. He was a formidable keyboard player, an accomplished businessman and an instinctive dramatist who knew how to capture an audience's attention.

The twelve Concerti Grossi, Op. 6, were composed in a remarkably short period in 1739, while Handel was also working on his English oratorios. They draw on Italian concerto traditions, particularly the music of Corelli, while displaying Handel's own distinctive blend of melodic invention, theatrical flair and contrapuntal skill.

Although written nearly three centuries ago, these concertos retain a freshness and immediacy that make them a delight to perform and hear.

Experience Handel live with Sheffield Chamber Orchestra

Our December 2026 concert brings together music from across the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, with Handel's Concerto Grosso in B-flat major providing a brilliant example of Baroque orchestral writing.

Alongside Handel, the programme includes Mendelssohn's evocative Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream, Dvořák's colourful Czech Suite and Louise Farrenc's powerful Symphony No. 1.

It promises to be an evening of musical contrasts, from the elegance of the Baroque to the richness and drama of the Romantic orchestra.

Join Sheffield Chamber Orchestra on Saturday 5 December 2026 for a magical evening of music.

We look forward to welcoming you!