Larisa Kirillina's new book is dedicated to Handel, one of the few geniuses who easily managed to combine artistic perfection and frank engagement in their work. He created a considerable number of works for official ceremonies and public celebrations - from all kinds of "Odes" and "Music" for royal parties, to the ubiquitous "Hallelujah" and the anthem of the UEFA Champions League, which every football lover knows. Adherents of elite art blamed Handel for his ability to appeal to the widest audience, and here he turned out to be the forerunner of the mass culture of the 20th century with its showmen and pop stars.