The Oratorio

I believe that the most significant musical contribution during the Baroque period is the oratorio. The word “oratorio” essentially refers to a prayer. An oratorio is a rather extensive compilation of various operatic pieces. The oratorio is similar to the opera but the compositions and lyrics included in an oratorio are usually based on the life of Christ. Every oratorio tells a story from the Bible through music without intricate backdrops and structured dramatic scenes. Personally, what I like best about the oratorio, in contrast to the orchestral arrangements, is that composers of the oratorios include solo vocals and choir parts are combined with the orchestra.

George Fredrick Handel

In my opinion, one of the more esteemed classical composers is George Fredrick Handel. He started out in law school but decided he would rather play and compose music instead. Handel is probably most recognized for his oratorios and operas. He was also an outstanding organist, and played a number of other instruments including the violin and the harpsichord. One well-known composition is the “Hallelujah Chorus” which throughout the years has been incorporated in a vast number of movies, television commercials, and all styles of choral arrangements. This composition is only a single masterpiece out of one of Handel’s oratorios, “Messiah”.

Guillaume Dufay mini-bio

Guillaume Dufay is a well known Renaissance composer who lived and composed music during the early-to-mid-fifteenth century. He was born in Beersel, near Brussels, then moved to Cambrai and sang in the church with the other choirboys. Professors noticed him and were impressed by his talent. By the age of sixteen years old he held much favor among members of the church, therefore, he excelled as a musician fairly quickly. As he got older he decided to venture into Rome and France. Dufay sang in several different choirs. He also held several prestigious positions, providing service in the church beneath several different popes and dukes in Rome and Florence.

Basic Steps for Baking a Pizza

The first step involved in baking a pizza is gathering together all of the ingredients necessary for the crust and any toppings that the baker is planning to add onto the pizza. Next, mix water, sugar, and the yeast together then let the dough sit for about ten minutes to make sure the dough is going to rise. When this mixture begins to foam, add flour (in small increments at a time)and stir the combination until all flour is added. It is important at this point in the process to start kneading the dough. When the dough has risen the cook must shape or toss the dough. After spreading sauce on the pizza crust the only steps left are to add toppings and to bake the pizza.