Not long after this the boy’s father passed away, and as there was but little money left for the mother, her son decided at once that he must support himself and not deprive her of her small income.  He acted as deputy organist at the Cathedral and Castle of Halle, and a few years later, when the post was vacant, secured it at a salary of less than forty dollars a year and free lodging.  George Frederick was now seventeen and longed for a broader field.  Knowing that he must leave Halle to find it, he said good-by to his mother, and in January 1703, set out for Hamburg to seek his fortune.

The Opera House Orchestra needed a supplementary violin.  It was a very small post, but he took it, pretending not to be able to do anything better.  However a chance soon came his way to show what he was capable of.  One day the conductor, who always presided at the harpsichord, was absent, and no one was there to take his place.  Without delay George came forward and took his vacant seat.  He conducted so ably, that he secured the position for himself.

The young musician led a busy life in Hamburg, filled with teaching, study and composition.  As his fame increased he secured more pupils, and he was not only able to support himself, but could send some money to his mother.  He believed in saving money whenever he could; he knew a man should not only be self supporting, but somewhat independent, in order to produce works of art.

Handel now turned his attention to opera, composing “Almira, Queen of Castile,” which was produced in Hamburg early in January 1705.  This success encouraged him to write others; indeed he was the author of forty operas, which are only remembered now by an occasional aria.  During these several years of hard work he had looked forward to a journey to Italy, for study.  He was now a composer of some note and decided it was high time to carry out his cherished desire.

He remained some time in Florence and composed the opera “Rodrigo,” which was performed with great success.  While in Venice he brought out another opera, “Agrippina,” which had even greater success.  Rome delighted him especially and he returned for a second time in 1709.  Here he composed his first oratorio, the “Resurrection,” which was produced there.  Handel returned to Germany the following year.  The Elector of Hanover was kind to him, and offered him the post of Capellmeister, with a salary of about fifteen hundred dollars.  He had long desired to visit England, and the Elector gave him leave of absence.  First, however, he went to Halle to see his mother and his old teacher.  We can imagine the joy of the meeting, and how proud and happy both were at the success of the young musician.  After a little time spent with his dear ones, he set out for England.