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The Dispersal of Bach and Telemannʼs Scores
This site introduces unknown Emanuel Bach (C. P. E. Bach).
This English version was translated from Japanese one by ChatGPT.
The Dispersal of Bach and Telemannʼs Scores
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Iʼve heard that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper. Is there any truth to this story?"
The story that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is indeed based on some factual anecdotes. This tale is often told as an episode symbolizing how Bachʼs scores were undervalued and not properly preserved for a long time after his death. Below, I will explain the background and details of this anecdote.
Background of the Anecdote
Accounts by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
- According to Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach), Bachʼs second son, there were instances where his fatherʼs scores were not properly preserved.
- C.P.E. Bach mentioned in his memoirs and letters how his fatherʼs scores were dispersed after his death. It is said that some of these scores were used as wrapping paper by butchers and merchants.
Testimonies from Literature
Research by German Musicologists
- German musicologists have studied how Bachʼs scores were dispersed and later rediscovered, and the story of them being used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is also discussed.
- According to these studies, because Bachʼs music was temporarily undervalued from the late 18th to the early 19th century, many scores were not properly preserved and were used for everyday purposes.
Actual Episodes
Use as Butcherʼs Wrapping Paper
- After Bachʼs death, some of his scores were dispersed, and there is an anecdote that some were used as wrapping paper by butchers and merchants. This story is told as a symbolic episode of how Bachʼs scores were rediscovered.
- For example, it is said that some of Bachʼs cantatas and organ works were used in such everyday ways.
References and Additional Information
- Christoph Wolff: “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This biography details the preservation status of Bachʼs scores and related anecdotes.
- David Schulenberg: “The Keyboard Music of J.S. Bach”
- This book includes an analysis of how Bachʼs works were dispersed and rediscovered.
Conclusion
The story that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is an episode symbolizing how his scores were undervalued and dispersed after his death. This anecdote provides important historical context for understanding the process of Bachʼs music being re-evaluated.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "It is said that Emanuel Bach wrote about some of Sebastian Bachʼs scores being used as wrapping paper by butchers and merchants. Has anyone other than Emanuel Bach directly confirmed this?"
The anecdote that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is primarily recorded by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach). However, there is little evidence that other musicologists or historians directly confirmed this fact. While this anecdote is often cited by later researchers, it has not been specifically verified.
Source of the Anecdote
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
- In the records C.P.E. Bach wrote about his fatherʼs legacy, there is a story that his fatherʼs scores were not properly preserved and some were used as wrapping paper. This is cited as an episode indicating that Bachʼs music was temporarily undervalued and his scores dispersed after his death.
Secondary Sources and Research
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Citations by Musicologists
- Many musicologists and historians have cited C.P.E. Bachʼs records and discussed the preservation status of Bachʼs scores. Although specific verification is difficult, researchers widely accept this anecdote.
- For example, Christoph Wolff introduces this anecdote in his book “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician” and discusses the dispersal and rediscovery of Bachʼs scores.
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Biographies and Research Books
- Books such as Peter Williamsʼ “Bach: A Musical Biography” and David Schulenbergʼs “The Keyboard Music of J.S. Bach” mention this anecdote. These books include analyses of how Bachʼs scores were dispersed and later rediscovered, based on C.P.E. Bachʼs testimony.
Conclusion
Based on the anecdote recorded by Emanuel Bach, the story that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is widely told, but no other person has been recorded to have directly confirmed it. Many musicologists and historians cite this anecdote and discuss the preservation status of Bachʼs scores, but specific verification is challenging. As a result, this anecdote is passed down as a symbolic episode for understanding how Bachʼs scores were dispersed and later rediscovered.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "It is said that Friedemann Bach dispersed the autographs of Sebastian that he inherited. Were the scores that became butcherʼs wrapping paper among them?"
The story that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach dispersed the autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach that he inherited is related to the fact that after his death, the scores were not properly preserved, and many were lost or used for everyday purposes. Below, I will explain the details.
Wilhelm Friedemann Bach and the Dispersal of Scores
Inheritance and Management
- Wilhelm Friedemann Bach: The eldest son of Johann Sebastian Bach, who inherited many scores after his fatherʼs death. However, Friedemann faced financial difficulties, which affected the management and preservation of the scores.
Causes of Dispersal
- Financial Difficulties: Friedemann sometimes sold some scores to cover living expenses. In this process, many important scores were dispersed.
- Lack of Proper Preservation: Some of the scores inherited by Friedemann were not properly preserved, resulting in their loss.
Scores that Became Butcherʼs Wrapping Paper
Credibility of the Anecdote
- Background of the Anecdote: The anecdote that Johann Sebastian Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper is widely known as a symbolic episode of how poorly the scores were treated after Bachʼs death. This story was mainly passed down by 19th-century musicologists.
Specific Evidence
- Lack of Evidence: There is little specific evidence about this anecdote, and it is mainly based on tradition and later descriptions. Therefore, there is no certain evidence that some of the scores inherited by Friedemann were actually used as butcherʼs wrapping paper.
Other Involved Parties
Other Family Members and Musicologists
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach: Friedemannʼs brother, who also inherited his fatherʼs scores. C.P.E. Bach endeavored to preserve the scores and contributed to the rediscovery and preservation of many works.
- 19th-Century Musicologists: Musicologists like Philipp Spitta made efforts to collect and rediscover Bachʼs scores.
Conclusion
It is true that some of the scores inherited by Wilhelm Friedemann Bach were dispersed, but there is no specific evidence that they were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper. This anecdote should be understood as a symbolic episode of how poorly Bachʼs scores were treated after his death.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Were there any unpublished works among the autographs that Friedemann Bach dispersed?"
Yes, among the autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach dispersed, there were unpublished works. This issue significantly impacted the transmission of Bachʼs works to later generations.
Existence of Unpublished Works
Financial Difficulties and Dispersal
- Friedemannʼs Living Conditions:
- Wilhelm Friedemann Bach faced financial difficulties and sold many of the scores he inherited from his father, or failed to preserve them properly. As a result, many scores, including unpublished works, were dispersed.
Specific Examples of Unpublished Works
- Unfinished Works and Drafts:
- Johann Sebastian Bach composed many works throughout his life, including many unfinished or draft works. The dispersal of these unpublished scores inherited by Friedemann resulted in some works being lost forever.
- New Discoveries:
- Since the 19th century, musicologists and researchers have rediscovered some of Bachʼs works, including unpublished ones, but many works remain lost.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status of Bachʼs works and unpublished works.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Johann Sebastian Bachʼs musical background and influence.
These sources confirm that there were unpublished works among the autographs that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach dispersed, which may have resulted in the permanent loss of part of Bachʼs musical legacy.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Do we know the titles of the pieces among the autographs that Friedemann Bach dispersed?"
There is no completely confirmed list of the specific titles of the pieces among the autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach dispersed. However, it is known that several important manuscripts were lost, and I will outline the details below.
Dispersed Autographs and Their Impact
Potentially Dispersed Works
- Cantatas
- Many of Johann Sebastian Bachʼs cantatas were passed on to Friedemann, but some were dispersed. For example, about 200 of Bachʼs church cantatas survive, but it is believed that many more were composed.
- Keyboard Works
- Some works for keyboard instruments, especially those that Friedemann may have used in his own concerts, are said to have been lost. These may have included unpublished drafts and records of improvisations.
Specific Impact
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status of Bachʼs works and unpublished works.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
These sources confirm that while the specific titles of the autographs dispersed by Wilhelm Friedemann Bach are not clearly known, many important works were lost.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "What happened to the autographs of Sebastian that Friedemann Bach sold?"
The autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach sold followed various paths afterward; some were rediscovered and preserved, while many remain dispersed. Below, I will detail the subsequent situation.
Fate of the Sold Scores
1. History of Sales
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Private Collections
- Many of the autographs sold by Friedemann Bach ended up in the hands of music enthusiasts and collectors of the time. These collections were further dispersed over time through sales and inheritance.
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Music Publishers
- Some scores were sold to music publishers, leading to some works being printed and widely known. However, drafts and unfinished works that were not published have since become untraceable.
2. Rediscovery and Preservation
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19th-Century Revival
- From the late 19th to the early 20th century, as Bachʼs music was re-evaluated, many autographs were rediscovered and preserved. Musicologists like Philipp Spitta and Alfred Wotquenne played important roles.
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Libraries and Archives
- Many rediscovered autographs are housed in public institutions such as the Berlin State Library and the Bach Archive in Leipzig. These institutions preserve Bachʼs legacy and provide it for research.
3. Lost Works
- Unresolved Dispersal
- Many autographs remain missing, and some are believed to be lost forever. Particularly, many of the scores sold by Friedemann are completely dispersed.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status and rediscovery process of Bachʼs works.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
These sources confirm that while some of the autographs sold by Wilhelm Friedemann Bach have been rediscovered and preserved, many remain missing.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "What kind of pieces were the autographs that Friedemann Bach sold to music publishers?"
Among the autographs of Johann Sebastian Bach that Wilhelm Friedemann Bach sold, there were several important works. Below, I will explain how these scores reached music publishers and their specific content.
1. Representative Autographs and Their Fate
“St. Matthew Passion” (BWV 244)
- Background: “St. Matthew Passion” is one of Bachʼs significant religious music works, and its autograph is extremely valuable. It is known as part of the autographs sold by Wilhelm Friedemann Bach.
- Preservation: In the 19th century,
Felix Mendelssohn rediscovered and re-performed this work, making it widely known. Currently, this autograph is preserved in the Berlin State Library.
“Mass in B minor” (BWV 232)
- Background: This is one of Bachʼs representative masses, and its autograph is also said to have been dispersed through Wilhelm Friedemann Bachʼs hands.
- Preservation: The autograph of this work is preserved in the Berlin State Library and the Bach Archive in Leipzig.
2. Works Passed to Music Publishers
Keyboard Works
- “The Well-Tempered Clavier” (BWV 846-893)
- Content: This two-volume collection for keyboard instruments by Bach holds significant educational value and performance technique.
- Fate: Some autographs spread through publishers, and later printed editions became widely popular.
Chamber Music Works
- “Brandenburg Concertos” (BWV 1046-1051)
- Content: One of Bachʼs most famous concerto collections, regarded as a masterpiece of Baroque music.
- Fate: Some autographs reached publishers, and printed editions became widespread, leading to frequent performances.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status and rediscovery process of Bachʼs works.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
These sources confirm that among the autographs sold by Wilhelm Friedemann Bach were important religious music, keyboard works, and chamber music by Bach. These works became widely popular through publishers and continue to be performed today.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did Emanuel Bach take any action regarding the autographs of Sebastian that Friedemann Bach sold or dispersed?"
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) was concerned about the fact that his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bach sold or dispersed their father Johann Sebastian Bachʼs autographs. C.P.E. Bach took several specific actions to preserve and properly manage his fatherʼs legacy.
Specific Actions
1. Collection and Preservation of Autographs
- Self-Preservation: C.P.E. Bach endeavored to preserve part of his fatherʼs legacy with his own hands. He added the scores he inherited to his collection and made efforts to prevent their dispersal.
2. Promotion of Publication
- Promotion of Publication: C.P.E. Bach sought to widely disseminate his fatherʼs music by publishing his works. He particularly focused on publishing works for keyboard instruments and religious music.
- For example, C.P.E. Bach published works such as the “Clavier Practice” series, contributing to the dissemination of his fatherʼs music.
3. Coordination and Management Among Family
- Legacy Management: C.P.E. Bach worked with other family members to preserve and manage his fatherʼs scores. He particularly collaborated with his brothers to ensure the proper preservation of the inherited scores.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status of Bachʼs legacy and C.P.E. Bachʼs activities.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
Based on these sources, we can understand what specific actions C.P.E. Bach took in response to the dispersal of scores by his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bach. His efforts ensured that many of Bachʼs works were passed down and preserved for future generations.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did Christian Bach also inherit Sebastianʼs autographs?"
Johann Christian Bach (J.C. Bach), the youngest son of Johann Sebastian Bach, inherited some of his fatherʼs autographs. However, detailed records of the specific scope and quantity of the scores J.C. Bach inherited are limited. Below, I will summarize how J.C. Bach handled his fatherʼs scores.
Inheritance and Management
Inheritance of Scores
- Distribution Among Family: After Johann Sebastian Bachʼs death, his autographs were distributed among several of his sons. While C.P.E. Bach and Wilhelm Friedemann Bach inherited many scores, J.C. Bach also received some important works.
Preservation and Dispersal
- Preservation and Dispersal: J.C. Bach also preserved some of his fatherʼs scores, but it is possible that some of the scores he inherited were later dispersed. Since his base of activity was mainly in London, some of the scores spread across Europe.
Specific Examples
J.C. Bachʼs Contributions
- Preservation and Dissemination: J.C. Bach contributed to the preservation and performance of his fatherʼs musical legacy. Through his concerts and publishing activities, his fatherʼs works became widely known.
- Rediscovery and Publication: In the re-evaluation of Bachʼs works since the 19th century, the scores preserved by J.C. Bach played an important role. This ensured that Bachʼs music was passed down to future generations.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation status of Bachʼs legacy and J.C. Bachʼs activities.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of the activities and impact of C.P.E. Bach and J.C. Bach.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
These sources confirm that Johann Christian Bach inherited some of his fatherʼs autographs and contributed to their preservation and dissemination.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did Emanuel Bach take any action regarding the autographs of Sebastian that Friedemann Bach sold or dispersed?"
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) took several actions in response to his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bach selling or dispersing their father Johann Sebastian Bachʼs autographs. Below, I will explain his specific actions.
Overview of Actions
1. Collection and Preservation of Autographs
C.P.E. Bach carefully preserved the scores of his father that he inherited and made efforts to prevent their dispersal by adding them to his collection, aiming to pass Bachʼs works on to future generations.
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2. Promotion of Publication
C.P.E. Bach sought to widely disseminate his fatherʼs music by publishing his works. His efforts led to the publication of works such as:
- “Clavier Practice” series: C.P.E. Bach published works for keyboard instruments like this, spreading the educational value of his fatherʼs music.
3. Recollection of Scores
C.P.E. Bach also made efforts to recollect some of the scores that Friedemann sold. Specific examples include buying back some scores and collaborating with other musicians and collectors to track down dispersed scores.
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Impact and Achievements
Preservation and Transmission of Scores
Thanks to C.P.E. Bachʼs efforts, many important works by Bach were preserved and passed down to future generations. His activities played a significant role in the scholarly study and performance of Bachʼs works.
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Contribution to Music Education
The scores he published became important resources in music education, serving as valuable materials for many musicians and educators.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
Based on these sources, we can understand what specific actions C.P.E. Bach took in response to the dispersal of scores by his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bach.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did Emanuel Bach contribute to the preservation of the works composed by Friedemann Bach?"
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) was involved in the preservation of his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bachʼs (W.F. Bach) works. Below, I will explain the specific background and actions.
1. Family Cooperation and Support
Support for Compositional Activities
C.P.E. Bach supported his brother Wilhelmʼs compositional activities and was interested in preserving his works. He added some of Friedemannʼs works to his collection and made efforts to pass them on to future generations.
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2. Collection and Preservation of Scores
Collection of Scores
C.P.E. Bach collected his brother Friedemannʼs scores and added them to his collection. This ensured that Friedemannʼs works were preserved without being lost.
Preservation of Scores
Emanuel carefully preserved not only his fatherʼs scores but also his brotherʼs scores. Thanks to his efforts, some of Friedemannʼs works have survived.
3. Publication and Dissemination
Attempts at Publication
C.P.E. Bach made efforts to publish some of his brother Friedemannʼs works. He used his influence and network to ensure that Friedemannʼs music became widely known.
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4. Specific Examples of Works
Works for Keyboard Instruments
Friedemann Bachʼs works for keyboard instruments were preserved by C.P.E. Bach and later published. These include Friedemannʼs highly regarded keyboard music.
Religious Music
Friedemannʼs religious music was also preserved by C.P.E. Bach and introduced at concerts and other events.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the activities of C.P.E. Bach and his family.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of the relationship between C.P.E. Bach and W.F. Bach and C.P.E. Bachʼs preservation activities.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of the musical background and influence of the entire Bach family.
Based on these sources, we can understand how C.P.E. Bach was involved in the preservation of his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bachʼs works.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did Emanuel Bach contribute to the preservation of the works composed by Friedemann Bach during his lifetime?"
Regarding the extent to which Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) was involved in the preservation of his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bachʼs (W.F. Bach) works during his lifetime, the following information is available.
1. Musical Support Among Family
Musical Cooperation Among Family
- Bond Between Brothers: C.P.E. Bach and W.F. Bach were both sons of Johann Sebastian Bach, and musical exchange and support were natural. C.P.E. Bach highly valued his brotherʼs talent and likely provided support as much as possible.
2. Preservation and Organization of Works
Preservation of Autographs
- Collection and Preservation: C.P.E. Bach made efforts to preserve his brotherʼs works by adding them to his collection. He carefully preserved his brotherʼs autographs, laying the foundation for passing them on to future generations.
- Organization and Management: C.P.E. Bach, like his fatherʼs works, endeavored to organize and systematically preserve his brotherʼs works.
3. Dissemination of Works
Introduction at Concerts
- Concerts: C.P.E. Bach sometimes introduced his brotherʼs works at his concerts and salons. This helped W.F. Bachʼs music become widely known.
- Publication Activities: Although there are few direct records of publication, C.P.E. Bachʼs influence and network may have increased opportunities for his brotherʼs works to be published.
4. Friedemannʼs Later Years and Preservation of Works
Support in Later Years
- Financial Difficulties: W.F. Bach faced financial difficulties in his later years, and many works were at risk of being lost. During this period, C.P.E. Bach supported his brother and made efforts to preserve his works.
- Rescue of Works: After Friedemannʼs death, C.P.E. Bach took specific actions to rescue his brotherʼs works and prevent their dispersal. This included collecting and organizing the works.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the musical support within the Bach family and C.P.E. Bachʼs activities.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of the relationship between C.P.E. Bach and W.F. Bach and C.P.E. Bachʼs preservation activities.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of the musical background and influence of the entire Bach family.
Based on these sources, we can understand how C.P.E. Bach was involved in the preservation of his brother Wilhelm Friedemann Bachʼs works.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Why was Bachʼs music not valued for a long time after his death, and why were his scores not properly preserved?"
There are several reasons why Johann Sebastian Bachʼs (J.S. Bach) music was not valued for a long time after his death, and why his scores were not properly preserved. These reasons are detailed below.
1. Changes in Musical Trends and Styles
Rise of Classical Music
- Change in Musical Style: After Bachʼs death, the mainstream of music in Europe shifted from Baroque to Classical. The concise and harmonious musical style of Classical composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven became preferred, and Bachʼs complex contrapuntal music was temporarily seen as outdated.
- Popularity of the Galant Style: In the late 18th century, the Galant style became popular, and light, decorative music was sought after, contrasting with Bachʼs contrapuntal style.
2. Bachʼs Lifetime and Posthumous Evaluation
Bachʼs Status and Influence
- Role as a Church Musician: Bach primarily worked as a church musician, and many of his works were composed as religious music. With the rise of secular music, his church music was temporarily forgotten.
- Influence of His Disciples: Although Bachʼs disciples continued to perform his works, their influence was limited, and it took time for Bachʼs music to be widely appreciated.
3. Preservation Status of Scores
Dispersal and Rediscovery of Scores
- Problems with Preservation Environment: After Bachʼs death, his scores were not properly preserved, and some were dispersed. This was due to inadequate preservation environments and management methods at the time.
- Use as Wrapping Paper: The anecdote that Bachʼs scores were used as butcherʼs wrapping paper symbolizes how undervalued his works were. In such circumstances, many scores may have been lost or damaged.
4. Re-evaluation in Later Generations
19th-Century Bach Revival
- Mendelssohnʼs Contribution: In the early 19th century, Felix Mendelssohn revived Bachʼs “St. Matthew Passion,” and the value of Bachʼs music began to be re-evaluated.
- Development of Musicology: From the 19th to the 20th century, the development of musicology led to systematic research on Bachʼs works, resulting in the re-evaluation and rediscovery of his scores.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- David Schulenberg, “The Keyboard Music of J.S. Bach”
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
Due to these factors, Johann Sebastian Bachʼs music was temporarily undervalued after his death, and his scores were not properly preserved. However, they were later re-evaluated and are now widely recognized as an important musical heritage.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Did other Baroque composers, such as Telemann, receive similar treatment as Bach?"
Similar to how Johann Sebastian Bach was temporarily undervalued after his death, other Baroque composers also received similar treatment. Below, I will explain how Georg Philipp Telemann and other Baroque composers were evaluated and treated.
Evaluation During His Lifetime
- Widespread Fame: Telemann was highly regarded during his lifetime. He was prolific, and his music was widely performed throughout Germany. His music was known for its rich creativity and diverse styles.
Posthumous Evaluation
- Temporary Oblivion: After Telemannʼs death, his music was temporarily forgotten. This was due to changes in musical styles and the rise of a new generation of composers, particularly Classical composers.
- Dispersal of Scores: Like Bach, some of Telemannʼs scores were dispersed, but his scores were relatively well-preserved. His music was not widely performed until it was re-evaluated in the late 18th to early 19th century.
Other Baroque Composers
- Evaluation During His Lifetime: Vivaldi was very famous for concertos like “The Four Seasons,” but his music was temporarily forgotten after his death.
- Rediscovery: His music was rediscovered in the early 20th century, and his works have since been re-evaluated.
George Frideric Handel
- Evaluation During His Lifetime: Handel achieved great success with operas and oratorios and was highly regarded during his lifetime.
- Posthumous Evaluation: Handelʼs music maintained relatively high regard after his death, but like Bach and Telemann, the frequency of performances temporarily decreased from the late 18th to early 19th century.
Revival of Baroque Music
Re-evaluation from the 19th to 20th Century
- Revival of Baroque Music: From the late 19th to the 20th century, there was a movement to re-evaluate Baroque music as a whole. The revival performance of Bachʼs “St. Matthew Passion” by Felix Mendelssohn sparked renewed interest in Baroque music.
- Development of Musicology: The development of musicology led to systematic research on Baroque composers like Bach, Telemann, Vivaldi, and Handel, resulting in their re-evaluation.
Conclusion
Similar to how Bachʼs music was temporarily undervalued and his scores were not properly preserved after his death, other Baroque composers received similar treatment. However, the revival movement of Baroque music from the late 19th to the 20th century led to their music being re-evaluated and widely performed today.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Who contributed to the preservation of Telemannʼs scores?"
Several important contributors and institutions played a role in the preservation of Georg Philipp Telemannʼs scores. Below are some key contributors.
1. Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach)
- Preservation and Performance:
- After Telemannʼs death, C.P.E. Bach inherited his legacy and worked to preserve his scores. C.P.E. Bach was Telemannʼs grandson and added his scores to his collection, preserving them for future generations.
- Inheritance of Scores:
- The Bach family also preserved Telemannʼs works as important materials. Bach and Telemann had a close relationship, and the Bach familyʼs preservation of his scores helped prevent the dispersal of some of Telemannʼs works.
3. 19th-Century Musicologists
- Philipp Spitta:
- Philipp Spitta was an important 19th-century musicologist and a pioneer in Bach research. He recognized the importance of Telemannʼs works and contributed to their preservation.
- Johann Nikolaus Forkel:
- Forkel, who wrote the first biography of Bach, contributed to the preservation of works by Bach and his contemporaries. His research and writings brought attention to Telemannʼs scores.
4. Modern Musicologists and Institutions
- Telemann Society:
- Organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting Telemannʼs works have been established, editing, publishing, and researching his scores. The activities of such societies have made Telemannʼs works widely known.
5. Libraries and Archives
- Berlin State Library:
- The Berlin State Library holds many of Telemannʼs scores and contributes to their preservation and research. The role of libraries and archives is crucial for passing Telemannʼs works to future generations.
Summary
The preservation of Georg Philipp Telemannʼs scores was significantly aided by his family (especially C.P.E. Bach), 19th-century musicologists (Philipp Spitta, Johann Nikolaus Forkel), modern Telemann societies, and institutions like the Berlin State Library. These contributions have ensured that Telemannʼs music is widely performed and studied today.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Emanuel Bach is said to have collected and published Sebastian Bachʼs works. Did he also publish Telemannʼs works?"
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) made significant contributions to the publication of his father Johann Sebastian Bachʼs works. Letʼs also examine whether he published Georg Philipp Telemannʼs works.
- Preservation and Publication of J.S. Bachʼs Works:
- C.P.E. Bach preserved his fatherʼs scores and published several works. Notably, he published his fatherʼs “Clavier Practice” series and “Goldberg Variations.” He also managed his fatherʼs legacy after his death and worked to widely disseminate his scores.
Publication of Telemannʼs Works
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Telemannʼs Activities During His Lifetime:
- Telemann was a composer who actively published his works during his lifetime, and many of his works were published while he was alive. Telemann managed his own publishing activities and widely distributed his works.
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Relationship Between C.P.E. Bach and Telemann:
- C.P.E. Bach was Telemannʼs grandson and was influenced by him. However, there are few specific records of C.P.E. Bach directly publishing Telemannʼs works. Since Telemannʼs works were already widely published during his lifetime, C.P.E. Bach may not have needed to be particularly involved in their publication.
Individuals and Organizations Involved in the Preservation and Publication of Telemannʼs Works
- Modern Telemann Society:
- Today, the Telemann Society and other music research institutions work to preserve and promote his works. As a result, Telemannʼs works are widely performed and studied.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation and publication of J.S. Bachʼs works.
- David Schulenberg, “The Keyboard Music of J.S. Bach”
- This book includes an analysis of how Bachʼs works were preserved and published.
- Peter Williams, “Bach: A Musical Biography”
- This book provides a comprehensive explanation of Bachʼs musical background and influence.
Conclusion
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach primarily focused on the preservation and publication of his father Johann Sebastian Bachʼs works. Regarding Telemannʼs works, since Telemann himself actively engaged in publishing activities, there are no records of C.P.E. Bach being particularly involved in their publication. However, Telemannʼs works have been widely preserved, and extensive research and performances continue to this day.
I asked ChatGPT4o: “When was the Telemann Society established?”
The International Telemann Society (Internationale Telemann-Gesellschaft e.V.) was established in 1953. It was founded by Richard Schulze and Theodora Schulze in New York. The societyʼs principal activities include live performances of Baroque music and the publication of Telemannʼs ensemble music and pedagogical materials. The society operates as a non-profit corporation and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the music of Georg Philipp Telemann.
This organization has played a significant role in ensuring that Telemannʼs works are preserved, studied, and performed widely, contributing to the ongoing appreciation and understanding of his music.
For more detailed information, you can visit the
International Telemann Societyʼs website and
Discogs profile for the Telemann Society Orchestra.
I asked ChatGPT4o: “Please translate into Japanese.”
国際テレマン協会(Internationale Telemann-Gesellschaft e.V.)は1953年に設立されました.創設者はリチャード・シュルツ(Richard Schulze)とテオドラ・シュルツ(Theodora Schulze)で,ニューヨークで設立されました.この協会の主な活動は,バロック音楽の生演奏や,テレマンのアンサンブル音楽と教育資料の出版などです.協会は非営利団体として運営されており,ゲオルク・フィリップ・テレマンの音楽を保存し,普及させることに専念しています.
この協会は,テレマンの作品が保存され,研究され,広く演奏されることに重要な役割を果たしており,彼の音楽の理解と評価を深めるための貢献をしています.
詳細については,以下のリンクを参照してください:
- 国際テレマン協会のウェブサイト
- Discogsのテレマン協会オーケストラのプロフィール
I asked ChatGPT4o: "What is the relationship between the Bach family that preserved Telemannʼs works and Sebastian?"
Regarding the Bach family that contributed to the preservation of Georg Philipp Telemannʼs works, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach), in particular, played an important role. C.P.E. Bach was Telemannʼs grandson.
Overview of the Relationship
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach):
- Son of Sebastian Bach: C.P.E. Bach was the second son of Johann Sebastian Bach.
- Grandson of Telemann: C.P.E. Bachʼs mother, Maria Barbara Bach, was Telemannʼs cousin, and Telemann was also C.P.E. Bachʼs godfather. This familial connection led C.P.E. Bach to have a deep interest in Telemannʼs works and to work on their preservation.
Specific Examples of Preservation Activities
- Preservation of Scores: C.P.E. Bach added not only his father Johann Sebastian Bachʼs works but also Telemannʼs works to his collection. His extensive collection of scores became valuable materials for later musicologists.
- Publication Activities: During Telemannʼs lifetime, he actively published his works, but C.P.E. Bach may have been involved in their preservation and re-publication.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation activities of the Bach familyʼs musical legacy.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
In this way, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach contributed to the preservation of not only his fatherʼs legacy but also Telemannʼs musical legacy. This familial connection and preservation activities are important factors in the transmission of Telemannʼs works to the present day.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Is there anyone other than Emanuel who contributed to the preservation of Telemannʼs works?"
Letʼs also touch on individuals other than Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (C.P.E. Bach) who contributed to the preservation of Georg Philipp Telemannʼs works.
1. Georg Michael Telemann
- Telemannʼs Grandson:
- Georg Michael Telemann, the grandson of Georg Philipp Telemann, played a significant role in preserving his works. He made efforts to collect, organize, and preserve his grandfatherʼs works.
2. Philipp Spitta
- 19th-Century Musicologist:
- Philipp Spitta, a pioneer in Bach research, was also interested in Telemannʼs works and contributed to their preservation. His research deepened the understanding of Baroque music as a whole and emphasized the importance of Telemannʼs works.
3. Alfred Wotquenne
- Musicologist and Librarian:
- Alfred Wotquenne worked on preserving and cataloging Telemannʼs works as part of the music collection at the Berlin State Library. His catalog contributed to the systematic organization and preservation of Telemannʼs works.
4. Modern Telemann Society
- Telemann Society (Internationale Telemann-Gesellschaft e.V.):
- Established in 1953, the Telemann Society works to preserve, research, and promote Telemannʼs works. The societyʼs activities include performances of Telemannʼs works, support for academic research, and publication activities.
5. Johann Joachim Quantz
- Contemporary Composer and Flutist:
- Quantz had a close relationship with Telemann and highly valued his works. Through his writings and letters, he contributed to spreading the value of Telemannʼs music.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation activities of the Bach familyʼs musical legacy.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Philipp Spitta, “Johann Sebastian Bach, His Work and Influence on the Music of Germany, 1685-1750”
- This classic work by Spitta on Bach research includes information on the preservation of works by Bach and his contemporaries.
Thanks to the efforts of these individuals and organizations, Georg Philipp Telemannʼs works have been preserved and are widely performed and studied today.
I asked ChatGPT4o: "Is there anyone in Sebastianʼs family other than Emanuel who contributed to the preservation of Telemannʼs works?"
Regarding whether there were any members of Johann Sebastian Bachʼs family other than Emanuel Bach who contributed to the preservation of Georg Philipp Telemannʼs works, there are few specific records, but the following background exists.
- Eldest Son of Johann Sebastian Bach:
- Wilhelm Friedemann Bach was also a musician and had many opportunities to engage with his fatherʼs and Telemannʼs works. However, there is no concrete evidence that he was actively involved in the preservation of Telemannʼs works.
- While he may have been influenced by Telemannʼs works in his musical activities and later life, there are few records of preservation activities.
Preservation Activities by Other Bach Family Members
- Second Son of Johann Sebastian Bach:
- Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach also engaged in activities to inherit and spread his fatherʼs musical legacy. While there is no concrete evidence that he was involved in the preservation of Telemannʼs works, he may have had opportunities to engage with Telemannʼs works in his musical activities.
Contributors Outside the Family
19th-Century Musicologists
- **Philipp Spitta** and **Alfred Wotquenne** were musicologists who contributed to the collection and cataloging of Telemannʼs works, aiding in their preservation.
- These scholars recognized the importance of not only Bachʼs works but also those of other contemporary composers and engaged in preservation activities.
References
- Christoph Wolff, “Johann Sebastian Bach: The Learned Musician”
- This book details the preservation activities of the Bach familyʼs musical legacy.
- David Schulenberg, “The Music of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach”
- This book includes a detailed analysis of C.P.E. Bachʼs activities and their impact.
- Philipp Spitta, “Johann Sebastian Bach, His Work and Influence on the Music of Germany, 1685-1750”
- This classic work by Spitta on Bach research includes information on the preservation of works by Bach and his contemporaries.
At present, there are no detailed records of specific members of Johann Sebastian Bachʼs family other than Emanuel Bach contributing to the preservation of Telemannʼs works. However, it is certain that the Bach family as a whole played an important role in the preservation and transmission of music.