What stylistic element is often distinguished in Handel's arias compared to classical Western art music?

In Handel's arias, vocal embellishments are a hallmark of his stylistic approach, particularly reflecting the Baroque era in which he composed. These embellishments include ornamentation such as trills, turns, and other decorative flourishes that a singer adds to the melodic line. This practice not only showcases the singer's virtuosity but also enhances the expressiveness of the music.

While other elements like improvisation, melodic repetition, and long instrumental sections may be present in some contexts, they do not specifically distinguish Handel's arias in the same way or are characteristic of different musical styles. Vocal embellishments are a defining feature that emphasizes the dramatic and emotional aspects of the text, making them particularly important in Handel's operatic and oratorio works. Thus, the emphasis on these elaborate vocal techniques sets Handel apart from classical Western art music that tends to favor more structured and composed melodic lines without such extensive ornamentation.