Yesterday was Johann Sebastian Bach's birthday--21 March 1685. I was busy and gone all the day long, so today I am listening to some of the best music in the world, Bach's.
I know of people, and know people personally, who do not like Bach, his music, that is. They think it's boring. And I have heard people play it ploddingly, some who seem not to have the slightest idea of its greatness, its beauty and grace and imagination. Serious and deep where required. Light and fun in other pieces. But the truth is he is the greatest. Shall we hear his music in the next life? I hope.
I grew up hearing Bach--two and three part inventions, partitas, minuets--even played a few of the simplest ones myself. I sang in the University Chorale at BYU when we performed the gorgeous, moving chorus, "Here, Yet A While," from Bach's St Matthew Passion.
I have spent much of 2012, 2013, and some of this year listening to Bach's concerti, some for violin, harpsichord, most for piano or transcribed for piano.
He had many children. Three of them, his oldest sons, also known for their musical contributions to the world. Carl Philip Emmanuel, Wilhelm Friedemann, and Johann Christian. I like their music as well, although we do not hear it as much.
I love Bach. Give him a listen.
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