Introduction to the Question

When discussing the relationship between Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one must first consider the temporal gap that separates them. Bach lived from 1685 to 1750, while Mozart was born in 1756 and lived until 1791. As such, it is highly unlikely that there was any interaction between the two composers in their lifetimes. This article explores the extent of their relationship, focusing on their indirect influence on each other's compositions.

Did Bach Like Mozart's Music?

Broadly speaking, it is improbable that Johann Sebastian Bach was aware of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's music. Bach died in 1750, long before Mozart was even born, and there is no direct evidence of any knowledge or appreciation between them. While it is possible that Mozart knew of Bach in a general sense, Bach would not have personally listened to or known Mozart's works.

Kingdom of Music: How Mozart Perceived Bach

Despite the clear chronological gap, there is evidence that Mozart was familiar with the works of Bach. After encountering a few examples of Bach's music, Mozart reportedly adopted a broader understanding of the Baroque style of composition. Drawing from this, we can infer that Bach's music significantly influenced Mozart's later works, including the 'Mass in C minor' (K. 427) and 'Requiem' (K. 626).

The Baroque Influence and Mozart's Acknowledgment

Mozart's deep appreciation for Bach's music is evident in his acknowledgment of Bach's value as a composer. In a remark that has been recounted over the years, Mozart is reported to have said, "Here is Bach; one could learn much from him." This statement underscores the profound influence that Bach had on Mozart's musical style:

"Here is Bach; one could learn much from him."

Although Mozart did not explicitly mention Bach when discussing his own composition, it is clear that Bach's Baroque style significantly influenced the rich harmonic and structural elements found in Mozart's later works.

Back-and-Forth Influences Between Composers

While Bach did not hear Mozart, the latter's admiration and integration of Bach's style can be seen in his compositions. Mozart's familiarity with Bach's music may have been facilitated through the patronage of enlightened aristocratic circles, companionship of fellow musicians, and exposure to music prints and scores. This exposure allowed Mozart to become familiar with Bach's intricate techniques and techniques, which he then applied to his own works.

Mozart's Encounters with Bach's Legacy

In spite of never meeting personally, Mozart probably met one of Bach's sons, Johann Christian Bach. During this meeting, Mozart allegedly proclaimed Johann Christian Bach as the brightest musician on the planet. This interaction possibly conveyed a sense of respect and influence between the musical giants of the Baroque and Classical periods. Although they did not share personal interactions, it is clear that Mozart was deeply affected by Bach's legacy:

"He is one of the greatest geniuses who ever lived, and I must say that, apart from minor faults, I always meet with more to like than to dislike in his works."

Through the legacy of Bach's sons and the broader musical milieu of his time, Mozart was undoubtedly influenced by the Baroque architectural style that characterizes much of Bach's work. This influence is evident in Mozart's adoption and refinement of Bach's highly developed form and structure in his later compositions.

Conclusion

In summary, while there was no direct relationship between Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it is clear from the evidence—both explicit and implied—that Mozart's respect and admiration for Bach's music profoundly affected his compositions. Despite being born six years after Bach's death, Mozart was knowledgeable about and influenced by Bach's work, particularly in the Baroque style and the deep harmonic structures that characterized Bach's masterpieces. The relationship between these two musical giants is a testament to the enduring and transformative power of classical music and its ability to transcend the boundaries of time.