Johann Sebastian Bach
- Born:
- March 31, 1685, Eisenach, Thuringia, Germany
- Died:
- July 28, 1750, Leipzig, Saxony, Germany
- Nationality:
- German
- Profession(s):
- Composer, Organist, Harpsichordist, Violinist
Early Life and Education
- Born into a large musical family; his father, Johann Ambrosius Bach, was a town musician.
- Orphaned at age 10 and raised by his eldest brother, Johann Christoph Bach, who was an organist.
- Received organ lessons from his brother and attended the Ohrdruf Gymnasium, excelling in music and Latin.
Career and Major Achievements
- Held various positions as an organist and court musician in Arnstadt, Mühlhausen, Weimar, and Köthen.
- Served as Kapellmeister (director of music) at the court of Köthen from 1717 to 1723.
- Appointed Thomaskantor (music director) at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig in 1723, a position he held until his death.
- Developed a reputation as a virtuoso organist and improviser, known for his complex counterpoint and harmonic innovations.
Notable Works
- Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565
- Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor, BWV 582
- Orgelbüchlein, BWV 599-644
- Clavier-Übung III (Organ Mass), BWV 802-805, 552, 669-689
- Numerous chorale preludes, fantasias, and sonatas for organ.
Legacy and Impact
Johann Sebastian Bach's contributions to the development of organ music are immense. His intricate counterpoint, innovative harmonic language, and profound understanding of the instrument's capabilities cemented his status as one of the greatest composers in history. Studies of his compositions are essential for understanding pipe organ music composers biography. His work continues to inspire and influence musicians across genres and generations.