Meet Johann Sebastian Bach DVD

Brilliant pianist Dennis Kobray becomes Johann Sebastian Bach in this one hour long dramatic presentation on his life, times and music. Gatherer of the past, inspirer of the future, a colossus astride history and civilization, J.S. Bach personified and brought to a close the Baroque era of music. In his lifetime (1685-1750), 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 polyphonic style was in conflict with the younger generation's preference for the newer homophonic style. When he died, 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.