Meet the Musicians: Bach DVD

Gatherer of the past, inspirer of the future, a colossus astride history and civilization, Johann Sebastian Bach personified and brought to a close the Baroque era of music. In his lifetime, his reputation was as a great organist; as a composer, his music was considered old-fashioned and overly embellished. Bach's mastery of the older poly-phonic style was in conflict with the younger generation's preference for the newer homophonic style. When he dies, his musical legacy of over one thousand compositions suffered neglect for almost a century. His "rediscovery" was one of the major turning points in music history. Filmed on the 250th anniversary of Bach's death, this production guides the audience through the composer's life. Selections from Bach's orchestral and religious works are heard and excerpts from many of his masterpieces are performed on the clavichord, harpsichord, and piano. Bach's compositions are universally recognized and cherished as among the most outstanding creations of his or any age.