J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works
The songs that are popular today—across not only classical music but also pop and jazz—are deeply influenced by past composers.
Among them, classical music is often called the foundation of music, and it’s no exaggeration to say that Johann Sebastian Bach, known as the “Father of Music,” was one of the figures who laid that very groundwork.
Bach’s music, while carrying a religious hue, is characterized by philosophical depth and intricately refined structure down to the finest details, with melodies of exceptional beauty.
Please take a look into the world of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers in history.
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J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (161–170)
Minuet in G majorJ.S.Bach
For many years, the Minuet in G major was believed to be a work by J.S.
Bach, the so-called father of music.
It is included in the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, a collection associated with Johann Sebastian Bach, but research has revealed that it is actually a piece by Christian Petzold, a composer of the same era.
Still, because it was long cherished as Bach’s work, most people today are unaware of its true authorship.
Regardless of who composed it, it remains a charming piece with an elegant, noble impression that’s unforgettable after a single hearing, and it continues to be a perfect showpiece for recitals.
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3: First MovementJ.S.Bach
This commercial leaves a strong impression with Ayami Nakajo, whose appearance evokes a European lady—the same image used in the Afternoon Tea logo.
The girl who appears in the “Unsweetened Milk Tea” segment is the model Ange N., and her interaction with Nakajo is adorable.
There’s a heartwarming punchline at the end that will make you chuckle, so be sure to watch all the way through.
The BGM features Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No.
3: First Movement, which fits the world of the commercial perfectly.
J.S. Bach | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (171–180)
Jesu,Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach
This commercial is famous for the phrase, “Ton ton ton ton, Hino’s two-ton!” Starring Lily Franky and Shinichi Tsutsumi, it’s always comical and fun.
This time, the two become ninjas, sneak into a castle, and get discovered by the lord.
And then what starts playing is Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” Isn’t that such a hilarious contrast? (lol)
Passacaglia No. 2J.S.Bach
J.S.
Bach’s Passacaglia and Fugue was originally composed for organ around 1710, but the orchestral arrangement is also a classic recording.
This link features a performance arranged and conducted by Stokowski.
There are many orchestral arrangements of Bach’s works, and it is also fascinating how the character of the same piece can change considerably depending on the arranger.
Toccata and Fugue, BWV 565J.S.Bach
It’s probably only in Japan that people nationwide have been familiar with this piece since kindergarten.
Even for a work that showcases the brilliant playing of the organist, Bach could never have imagined it would be turned into a song about milk coming out of your nose in a far eastern country.
Brandenburg ConcertoJ.S.Bach
It consists of six pieces.
It was composed around 1718–1721 and dedicated to Christian Ludwig, Margrave of Brandenburg, in Germany.
In this video, instruments from earlier times are used, which differ somewhat from modern orchestral instruments.
Perhaps the most commonly heard are No.
1 and No.
5.
Toccata and FugueJ.S.Bach
Toccata and Fugue is a solo organ piece composed by the German composer Johann Sebastian Bach in the early 18th century.
You may have heard it in commercials or parody songs—it’s a piece that feels as if the sheer shock of a moment has been turned directly into melody.
The introduction is especially famous, but the later sections are also compelling, making full use of the organ’s mournful, resonant timbre and its wide range.
If you get the chance, try listening to the whole piece from start to finish!
