Classical Music Composers

Key classical composers connected to Britain: • Henry Purcell (17th century) — wrote music for the court • George Frederick Handel — German-born, became British citizen. Composed the Messiah and Water Music • Edward Elgar — Pomp and Circumstance Marches (Land of Hope and Glory) • Ralph Vaughan Williams — English folk music influenced • Benjamin Britten — operas including Peter Grimes • Gustav Holst — The Planets suite