Johann Sebastian Bach

(1685 1750)

Introduction
One the most prolific composers ever Brought the Baroque Era to its full maturity Known more as an organist during his time In 19th century, his compositions gained acclaim The BACH family produced more than 50 notable composers Career was geographically compacted to one small area

Intro. continued
Devout Christian (Lutheran) Proliferated the Lutheran musical tradition Fathered 20 children between 2 wives, and taught most of them to play instruments The Bach-Werke-Verseichnis or BWV is the modern numbering system for all of his compositions (BWV 250)

Early Life
Born March 21, 1685 in Eisenbach Father: Johann Ambrosius Bach (Musician) Taught to play violin and harpsichord by father, organ by uncle Quickly became proficient at any instrument Sang as a choirboy with an uncommonly fine treble voice

Early Life
Bach studied Latin, Greek, and Theology at a well-respected grammar school Also mastered Harpsichord and Organ Landed a prestigious job as a choirboy at a wealthy monastery where room and board were paid for BY the time he was 15, he traveled 180 miles north to Luneburg

Early Life
Eventually outgrew his soprano voice but was able to play violin in the orchestra and accompany the choir on harpsichord/organ Enriched by his musical experiences, he became interested in pursuing a career as an organist In 1707, he took the position of organist of Muhlhaussen It was here that Bach wrote one of his first cantatas Gott ist Mein Konig

Mid-Life
Bach left for Weimar for new employment (in the court 1708) Worked as member of the orchestra and as Organist to the court Wrote profusely for the organ during this period Had several students coming for far away By this point, Bach had established himself as the finest organist in his day

Life
Bach took another position as court musician in Cthen It was here that he met his second wife Anna Magdalena (she 20, he 36). They 13 children in 28 years of marriage Conditions were unfavorable and the Bach family moved to Leipzig where he remained the rest of his life

Leipzig
Employed as Cantor and Director of Music It was here that Bach wrote the majority of his 200 Cantatas (thats roughly 30 minutes of music nearly every Sunday for 5 years) Unlike before, Bach has a strict busy schedule (lessons, singing classes, cantata rehearsal on Saturday afternoon) along with weekday services, wedding, funerals, etc.

Collegium Musicum
A musical society similar to TSO Bach took the position of Director in 1729 Performed public concerts as we know them today Bach was in the latter stages of his life at this point His sight was poor because of overwork in low light Bachs final compositions The Art of Fugue was left unfinished when he died July 28th, 1750