Book review of Johann Sebastian Bach: His Life Art and Work

Johann Nikolaus Forkel's "Johann Sebastian Bach: His Life, Art, and Work" stands as a cornerstone of Bach scholarship, offering a deeply personal and insightful portrait of the composer. Drawing on firsthand accounts from Bach's sons, Carl Philipp Emanuel and Wilhelm Friedemann, Forkel paints a vivid picture of Bach's life, from his early years in Eisenach to his influential position as Thomaskantor in Leipzig. The biography seamlessly intertwines biographical details with insightful analyses of Bach's major works, including the Mass in B Minor and The Well-Tempered Clavier, highlighting his masterful counterpoint and profound emotional depth. Forkel's accessible yet scholarly approach makes this biography a timeless and essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the life and genius of one of history's most celebrated composers.

Hardcover 36.95 USD

Paperback 6.69 USD

4.2 / 44 ratings

Review Johann Sebastian Bach

Forkel's "Johann Sebastian Bach: His Life, Art, and Work" is a fascinating glimpse into a musical giant, offering a unique perspective colored by its time and authorship. While not without its limitations – as many reviewers pointed out, the accuracy of some details is debated by modern scholarship – its value lies in its historical significance as the very first biography of Bach. Reading it feels like peering over the shoulder of someone who lived relatively close to the composer, gaining insights filtered through the recollections of Bach's own sons. This firsthand element provides a palpable sense of intimacy and authenticity that's hard to replicate in later biographies.

I found myself captivated by Forkel's descriptions of Bach's musical journey, from his early life to his final years as the Thomaskantor in Leipzig. The book successfully paints a portrait of a man utterly dedicated to his craft, someone who could seamlessly weave intricate musical techniques with profound emotional depth. It's not just a dry recounting of facts; Forkel conveys a genuine admiration for Bach's genius, which makes the narrative engaging and inspiring, even for those who aren't deeply immersed in musical theory.

The book's analysis of key works, including the Mass in B Minor, The Well-Tempered Clavier, and the Brandenburg Concertos, is insightful, even if presented through a lens of 18th-century musical understanding. It successfully bridges the gap between scholarly analysis and accessible explanation, making complex musical concepts understandable to a broader audience. While some modern readers might find the level of detail on musical theory slightly less comprehensive than what's available in contemporary studies, it's crucial to remember the context of the book's creation – it set the stage for future Bach scholarship.

While some readers expressed disappointment at the lack of detail on Bach's daily life and relationships beyond his musical circles, I felt this was understandable given the limitations of biographical sources available to Forkel at the time. The focus remains primarily on Bach's musical achievements and influence, which is perfectly valid considering the book's purpose. It’s a historical document as much as a biography, reflecting the knowledge and perspectives of its era.

The language, as some reviewers noted, may present a challenge for some readers depending on their familiarity with older English prose. However, the richness of the historical context and the personal insights make the effort worthwhile. In short, I wouldn't necessarily recommend this as the sole source for understanding Bach's life, but as a foundational text, a historical artifact offering a unique perspective, it holds considerable value. It's a valuable addition to any Bach enthusiast's library, providing a glimpse into the initial attempts to understand and celebrate the legacy of one of history's most significant composers. It's a journey back in time, a chance to engage with the first attempt to capture the essence of a musical genius.

Information

• Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.29 x 8.5 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 113
• Publication date: 2024

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