Composer Johann Sebastian Bach 1685 - 1750

In my piano studio this month we are focusing on Mr. Bach and his Music. He lived in the Baroque Period which was from 1600-1750. The music of that period had specific characteristics which included:

Baroque compositions usually have one mood or affect for the entire piece.

Many are dances require a buoyant, steady, rhythm. Complex voicings and rhythms prevailed.

The harpsichord was the main keyboard instrument of the day.

Emphasis was on strong beats, upbeats and fast changing rhythmic motion.

Phrase and expression marks were not used. Faster notes were normally played legato (smoothly) and slower notes were normally played nonlegato (separated). Ornaments were frequently used.

Here are some websites which have more information about Bach and his music:

Classics for Kids

J.S. Bach Home Page

Making Music Fun

The Joy of Music

The Joy of Music - Music is unique to humans. Music is as basic as language to human development and existence. Through music a child gains insight into herself, into others, and into life itself. Perhaps most important, she is better able to develop and sustain her imagination. Without music, life would be bleak. Because a day does not pass without a child’s hearing or participating in some music, it is to a child’s advantage to understand music as thoroughly as she can. As a result, as she becomes older she will learn to appreciate, listen to, and partake in music that she herself believes to be good. Because of such cultural awareness, her life will have more meaning for her (adapted from Gordon, 1990).