Find out what inspired a musical genius in a museum dedicated to the life and work of one of the greatest classical music composers.
Fall in love with the music of Bach once again in the Bach Museum in Leipzig. The museum not only contains artifacts and exhibits relating to the composer, but it also has a calendar of concerts where his music is performed live by an in-house ensemble. An annual festival completes the museum’s celebration of his formidable canon of work.
Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Eisenach in 1685 and was one of the most influential figures in the Baroque music movement. Although he has many famous works, including the soaring Brandenburg Concertos, his weekly commissions from churches in Leipzig meant that he composed hundreds of songs, airs and toccatas before his death in 1750.
The museum is hosted in Bose House, previously a residence of the Bose family, who were friends with Bach. Step inside to see features of the building that date back to this era, including a mirror-lined banqueting hall that is now used for concerts.
Trace the story of Bach’s life across a series of displays that follow his journey. Learn about how his whole family were involved with music and inspect instruments from the Baroque era. Bach worked for part of his life testing and examining organs, including one that is displayed in the museum.
Part of the gallery is dedicated to Bach’s time in Leipzig. Use touch-screen displays on a floor map of the city to learn more about his life here.
The Bach Museum hosts concerts throughout the year. Aside from Bach compositions, the in-house ensemble plays a diverse selection of Baroque music from other composers, including work by Telemann and Purcell.
Visit the Bach Museum in June to take part in Bach Fest, when the composer’s music is celebrated and performed over a week and a half of concerts. Listen to soul-stirring cantatas and religious songs by the great man and attend events that look at his far-reaching influence in the world of music.
The Bach Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. There is an admission fee, with free entry for children aged up to 16. The museum is located opposite St. Thomas Church, which has a bus stop outside. Walk here from nearby Market Square and the Old Town Hall.
