Johann Sebastian Bach is one of the greatest composers in history, but beyond his musical genius, his life was filled with fascinating stories and quirks. Here are some fun facts about Bach that you may not know!
1. Bach Was a Coffee Lover
Bach was a big fan of coffee! He even composed the Coffee Cantata, a humorous piece about a young woman’s love for coffee despite her father’s disapproval.
2. He Walked Over 250 Miles for Music
As a young man, Bach traveled 250 miles on foot to hear the famous organist Dieterich Buxtehude perform. This journey greatly influenced his musical style.
3. He Went to Jail Over a Job Dispute
Bach was once imprisoned for nearly a month because he tried to resign from a job before getting permission from his employer!
4. He Had a Huge Family
Bach fathered 20 children, though sadly, not all survived infancy. Several of his children became renowned composers themselves.
5. He Was Almost Forgotten After His Death
After Bach’s death in 1750, his music fell out of popularity until composers like Mendelssohn revived interest in his works nearly 80 years later.
6. His Music Was Sent Into Space
A recording of Bach’s music was included on the Voyager spacecraft’s Golden Record, making his compositions part of humanity’s message to the universe.
7. He Could Improvise Like a Master
Bach was known for his incredible improvisational skills. He could create complex fugues on the spot, often astounding his peers.
8. He Almost Lost His Sight Due to Surgery
Late in life, Bach underwent eye surgery by a questionable doctor. The procedure failed, leaving him blind in his final years.
9. He Loved Musical Puzzles
Bach often embedded hidden messages in his compositions, using musical notes to spell his name or create intricate number patterns. Now, you might ask yourself, “since there is no H in the musical alphabet, how would that work?” In German music notation, H is used for the letter B. And yes, they do use B as well. Weird, I know, but it works to spell Bach!
10. His Music Is Used in Modern Science and Therapy
Bach’s music has been studied for its effects on the brain, improving focus, relaxation, and even plant growth in experiments!
Johann Sebastian Bach wasn’t just a musical genius—he was a fascinating figure full of surprises! Stay tuned as we continue our Bach celebration this month.