Chris Kouffman February 11, 1997 Period 7 Johann Sebastian Bach Johann Sebastian Bach was a musical composer of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. He was one of the greatest composers of all time. He was born in Eisenach, Thuringia, in 1685. He spent his life in music and was known for his ability in that subject. At age 15, Bach got his first job as a court musician at Weimar. There he became known as a great organist. In 1717, the Prince of Cothen invited Bach to become Kappelmeister in Cothen. The Duke of Weimar refused to let Bach go to Cothen, however, and confined him in a gaol for a time. After Bach was released by the Duke of Weimar, Bach took up the Prince of Cothen on his offer and stayed with him in Cothen for a period of six years. It was there in Cothen that Bach became widely known for his skill as organist and his ability to compose sacred and secular music. His stay in Cothen staged his fame in his country for his music. Bach s last job was as Cantor at St. Thomas s school in Leipzig. This was one of the most prestigious posts in Germany. There in Leipzig he spent 20 years constantly battling with the school and church authorities. However, he did write some of the best work in his lifetime during this period. Johann Sebastian Bach spent his life devoted to his music. In that respect he was a genius. He was one of the greatest composers and organists in his period of time.