Essay/Term paper: Johann sebastian bach

Essay, term paper, research paper:  Culture

Johann Sebastian Bach


Chris Kouffman
February 11, 1997
Period 7

Johann Sebastian Bach was a musical composer of the late 17th and early
18th centuries. He was one of the greatest composers of all time. He was born
in Eisenach, Thuringia, in 1685. He spent his life in music and was known for
his ability in that subject.
At age 15, Bach got his first job as a court musician at Weimar. There
he became known as a great organist. In 1717, the Prince of Cothen invited Bach
to become Kappelmeister in Cothen. The Duke of Weimar refused to let Bach go to
Cothen, however, and confined him in a gaol for a time.
After Bach was released by the Duke of Weimar, Bach took up the Prince
of Cothen on his offer and stayed with him in Cothen for a period of six years.
It was there in Cothen that Bach became widely known for his skill as organist
and his ability to compose sacred and secular music. His stay in Cothen staged
his fame in his country for his music.
Bach's last job was as Cantor at St. Thomas's school in Leipzig. This
was one of the most prestigious posts in Germany. There in Leipzig he spent 20
years constantly battling with the school and church authorities. However, he
did write some of the best work in his lifetime during this period.
Johann Sebastian Bach spent his life devoted to his music. In that
respect he was a genius. He was one of the greatest composers and organists in
his period of time.