Bekannteste Werke Von Johann Sebastian Bach

Willkommen! You're planning a trip to Germany, or maybe you've already arrived? Wonderful! If you're interested in classical music, you simply *must* delve into the incredible world of Johann Sebastian Bach. His music is woven into the very fabric of German culture, and experiencing it is an unforgettable part of any visit. This guide will introduce you to some of his most famous and beloved works, helping you plan your musical journey.

Einleitung zu Bach

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was a German composer and musician of the Baroque period. He is celebrated as one of the greatest composers of all time, and his works are admired for their intellectual depth, technical command, and artistic beauty. While he was a highly respected musician during his lifetime, his fame truly exploded in the 19th century and has only continued to grow since.

Bach's output was incredibly prolific, covering a wide range of genres, from organ music and sacred choral works to instrumental concertos and suites. Trying to listen to everything he wrote would be a monumental task, so let's focus on some of the most accessible and rewarding pieces for a newcomer.

Berühmte Orgelwerke

Bach was a virtuoso organist, and his organ works are among his most impressive compositions. They showcase his mastery of counterpoint, harmony, and his ability to create music of immense power and grandeur.

Toccata und Fuge d-Moll, BWV 565

Probably the most famous organ piece ever written, the Toccata and Fugue in D Minor is instantly recognizable. Its dramatic opening, with its powerful descending scales, immediately grabs your attention. Even if you don't know the title, you've almost certainly heard this piece in movies, television, or popular culture. It's a fantastic starting point to appreciate Bach's skill and the sheer sonic possibilities of the organ. Many churches and concert halls with impressive organs regularly feature this piece in their programs. Check local listings for performances near you!

Passacaglia und Thema Fugatum c-Moll, BWV 582

A Passacaglia is a musical form where a repeating bass line (the passacaglia) forms the foundation for variations above it. Bach's Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor is a masterpiece of this form. The passacaglia theme is simple but powerful, and Bach builds upon it with an incredible series of variations, showcasing his inventiveness and contrapuntal skill. The subsequent fugue adds further complexity and grandeur. This piece is a bit more demanding than the Toccata and Fugue, but it's well worth exploring.

Orgel-Büchlein, BWV 599-644

The Orgel-Büchlein (Little Organ Book) is a collection of 46 short organ preludes based on chorale melodies (traditional hymn tunes). Bach intended this collection to be a teaching tool, demonstrating various ways to elaborate and harmonize a chorale. However, these pieces are far more than just exercises; they are miniature masterpieces of expressive and devotional music. Each prelude captures the mood and meaning of the corresponding chorale text, making them deeply moving and spiritually profound. They are perfect for quiet contemplation and provide insight into Bach's deep faith.

Konzerte und Orchestermusik

Bach's orchestral music is equally compelling, showcasing his ability to write exciting and engaging instrumental works.

Brandenburgische Konzerte, BWV 1046-1051

The Brandenburg Concertos are a set of six concertos dedicated to Christian Ludwig, Margrave of Brandenburg-Schwedt. Each concerto features a different combination of instruments and explores a unique musical texture. They are brilliant examples of the concerto grosso style, where a small group of soloists (the concertino) is contrasted with a larger ensemble (the ripieno). The Brandenburg Concertos are full of energy, virtuosity, and sheer joy of music-making. They are consistently ranked among the greatest orchestral works of the Baroque period.

Violinkonzerte

Bach composed several violin concertos, including the concertos in A minor (BWV 1041) and E major (BWV 1042), as well as the concerto for two violins in D minor (BWV 1043). These concertos are characterized by their lyrical melodies, intricate counterpoint, and brilliant solo writing. The Concerto for Two Violins is particularly beloved for its beautiful slow movement, which features a soaring melody for the two solo violins, interwoven in a delicate and expressive dialogue. You will frequently find live performances of these concertos in concert halls and churches across Germany.

Orchestersuiten, BWV 1066-1069

Bach's four Orchestral Suites (also known as Overtures) are collections of stylized dance movements, such as the allemande, courante, sarabande, and gigue, preceded by a French-style overture. The most famous of these suites is probably the Suite No. 3 in D Major, which contains the incredibly beautiful and serene "Air on the G String". This movement is often performed separately and is known for its simple yet profound melody and its calming effect. The Suite No. 2 in B minor, featuring a solo flute, is also very popular. These suites are perfect for enjoying a relaxing evening or adding a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Vokalmusik

Bach's vocal music is arguably the most profound and moving part of his output. He composed a vast number of cantatas, motets, masses, and other sacred works, many of which are based on biblical texts and chorale melodies.

Matthäus-Passion, BWV 244

The St. Matthew Passion is a monumental oratorio that tells the story of the Passion of Christ as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew. It is a work of immense scale and emotional depth, featuring a large orchestra, chorus, and soloists. The music is incredibly expressive, capturing the full range of human emotions, from grief and despair to hope and redemption. Listening to the St. Matthew Passion is a deeply moving and spiritual experience. Performances are usually around Easter time and often sell out quickly.

Johannes-Passion, BWV 245

The St. John Passion is another powerful oratorio by Bach that tells the story of the Passion of Christ, this time from the perspective of the Gospel of John. While less frequently performed than the St. Matthew Passion, it is equally compelling and dramatic. The St. John Passion is known for its intense and urgent character, and its powerful choruses are particularly striking.

h-Moll Messe, BWV 232

The Mass in B Minor is Bach's only complete setting of the Latin Mass. It is a towering achievement of musical architecture, encompassing a wide range of styles and emotions. The Mass in B Minor is a testament to Bach's genius and his profound faith. This is another piece that is often performed in major churches and concert halls, especially around Easter and Christmas.

Kantaten

Bach composed over 200 church cantatas, most of which were written for specific Sundays and feast days in the liturgical year. These cantatas are relatively short works, typically lasting around 20-30 minutes, and they feature a combination of choruses, arias, recitatives, and instrumental movements. Many of Bach's cantatas are based on chorale melodies, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the devotional life of 18th-century Germany. Exploring Bach's cantatas is a rewarding way to discover the depth and breadth of his musical imagination. Some particularly well-known examples include: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, BWV 140 (Sleepers Wake) and Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147 (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, from this cantata is particularly famous).

Kammermusik

Bach's chamber music is equally rewarding, showcasing his ability to write intimate and expressive works for smaller ensembles.

Goldberg-Variationen, BWV 988

The Goldberg Variations are a set of 30 variations on a simple bass line, composed for harpsichord (or piano). They are a masterpiece of contrapuntal writing and are known for their intellectual rigor and their profound beauty. The Goldberg Variations are a popular choice for solo performers and are often recorded and performed in their entirety. Listening to the Goldberg Variations is a meditative and deeply satisfying experience.

Cellosuiten, BWV 1007-1012

Bach's six Cello Suites are a cornerstone of the cello repertoire. They are a set of unaccompanied suites for solo cello, each consisting of a prelude and a series of dance movements. The Cello Suites are renowned for their technical difficulty and their expressive depth. They are a favorite of cellists around the world and are frequently performed in concert.

Wo kann man Bach erleben?

Germany is a fantastic place to experience Bach's music firsthand. Here are a few suggestions:

• Leipzig: Visit the Thomaskirche, where Bach worked as the Cantor of St. Thomas School for many years. You can attend services, concerts, and see his final resting place. Also, visit the Bach Museum.
• Eisenach: Bach's birthplace! Explore the Bachhaus, a museum dedicated to his life and works.
• Arnstadt: Visit the Neue Kirche, where Bach held his first organ position.
• Köthen: Where Bach served as Kapellmeister (director of music) at the court.

Throughout Germany, you'll find countless churches and concert halls hosting performances of Bach's music. Check local listings for events during your stay. Many smaller towns also host Bach festivals during the year.

Abschließende Gedanken

Exploring the music of Johann Sebastian Bach is a rewarding journey that will enrich your understanding of German culture and the power of music. Don't be intimidated by his reputation – just start listening! There's something for everyone in Bach's vast repertoire. Enjoy your musical adventure!
Viel Spaß!