Was Johann Sebastian Bach Appreciated in His Time? A Historical Insight

Often portrayed as a 'has been' by many of his contemporaries, Johann Sebastian Bach's legacy was not fully recognized until after his death. This article explores the varied perspectives on his appreciation during his lifetime and how his reputation transformed over time.

Bach's Prestigious Beginnings

Despite the notion that Bach was simply 'a Bach, ' he was indeed highly regarded during his lifetime. The Bach family was renowned for their musical prowess, and this reputation undoubtedly contributed to Bach's early recognition. During his service as the City Music Director in Weimar and then at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Bach held significant positions and performed for specific occasions such as church services and royal events. His expertise in both performance and composition earned him considerable respect from cultured individuals who interacted with him.

The Decline of His Popularity

While Bach was acknowledged and appreciated among the cultured elite, his music did not resonate widely outside of Germany, and even within the country, he was more celebrated as an organist rather than a composer. Records indicate that his employers, the City Council of Leipzig, viewed him with less respect. In 1750, when the music style shifted from Baroque to pre-classical, Bach's baroque style became less favored. After his death, the Leipzig City Council happily employed a 'real' musician and a 'real' composer, suggesting that they were relieved when they no longer had to deal with Bach.

The "Bach Revival" and Reputation Growth

It was not until the early 19th century that Bach began to receive the recognition he deserved. Felix Mendelssohn, a distinguished composer in his own right, played a pivotal role in reviving interest in Bach's work. Mendelssohn's performances of Bach's compositions at the St. Thomas Church in 1829 were instrumental in rekindling public interest. This revival led to a gradual appreciation of Bach's contributions to music, particularly for pre-piano keyboard instruments such as the harpsichord, clavichord, and organ.

Legacy and Recognition

Today, Johann Sebastian Bach is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers in history. His intricate and complex compositions are celebrated for blending technical virtuosity with emotional depth. While his baroque style was largely out of favor in the late 1700s, his works were performed by devoted musicians and gradually gained recognition throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. His reputation as a master composer, especially for pre-piano keyboard instruments, continued to grow, cementing his place as a musical genius.