Johann Christian Bach, the youngest son of Johann Sebastian Bach, was only fifteen when his father died, leading to less influence from his father compared to his elder brothers.
Cultural Impact
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart considered Johann Christian Bach, not Johann Sebastian Bach, to be 'the great Bach,' lamenting his death as 'What a loss for the world of music!'
Compositional Technique
The vocal style in Johann Christian Bach's religious music is very close to operatic style, with arias conceived like concerto movements that end with improvised cadenzas.
Composer Biography
Johann Christian Bach converted to Catholicism to secure a position as composer and organist for Milan Cathedral, a significant departure from his family's traditions.
Compositional Technique
The Gloria on this album features orchestral solo passages that link to the sinfonia concertante style, which became popular in Europe from the 1760s.
Composition History
The three Mass sections on this album (Kyrie, Gloria, Credo) were likely not intended as parts of a single, larger Mass due to their differing keys and dimensions.
Composer Biography
Johann Christian Bach was the only one of J.S. Bach's sons to pursue a European career outside his native Germany, establishing himself in London.
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