Would Johann Sebastian Bach Appreciate Modern Classical and Art Rock Compositions?

It's a fascinating exercise to imagine how one of the most luminary figures in classical music history, Johann Sebastian Bach, might react to modern compositions in genres such as classical and art rock. While we can't truly know his thoughts, let us embark on a speculative journey, diving into the intricate nuances of musical evolution and exploring why Bach might be intrigued, entertained, or perhaps even repelled by contemporary works.

Entertainment through Familiarity

Bach, the genius known for his masterful compositions that spanned a range of genres from religious cantatas to the intricate fugues of his wohltemperirtes klavier (The Well-Tempered Clavier), would likely find some modern compositions entertaining due to his deep appreciation for the complexities of structure and harmony.

Consider how Bach's intricate counterpoint and dense textural interplay were featured in his Brandenburg Concertos and Mass in B Minor. Modern classical and art rock often incorporate similarly layered and multi-layered compositions. For instance, a piece by Philip Glass or one of the minimalist works by John Adams might resonate with Bach for their repetitive, yet subtly evolving structures. Similarly, an experimental art rock composition by Bj?rk or Depeche Mode could captivate Bach with their innovative use of harmonies and complex time signatures.

Repulsion from Innovation

On the other hand, Bach might find certain modern works repelling due to the dramatic shifts in musical aesthetics and the radical departures from the classical traditions he upheld. Bach’s music is deeply rooted in baroque conventions and the strictures of the church. Modern classical and art rock compositions, however, often push the boundaries of melody, harmony, and structure, challenging the very foundations of his musical thought.

The works of The Who or Tame Impala, with their heavy use of effects and unconventional song structures, might be too modern and alien to Bach. Bach’s aesthetic sensibilities, which valued order, discipline, and a clear musical hierarchy, might not align with the raw, untamed sounds and unorthodox songwriting techniques of contemporary genres like art rock.

Indifference towards Innovation

Many of Bach’s unfinished and lesser-known works present a complex tableau of his unfinished vision and the unpredictable nature of musical composition. Given this, Bach might have taken a detached interest in many modern compositions, finding them intriguing and thought-provoking but ultimately uninteresting in a personal capacity.

For Bach, music was not just a form of entertainment; it was deeply personal and reflective of his religious and philosophical beliefs. Therefore, modern works that diverge significantly from these roots, such as minimalist music that eschews traditional tonality or electronic compositions that rely on digital effects, might not hold as much appeal. However, Bach’s legacy also lies in his adaptability and his respect for the prevailing trends of his time, meaning he might appreciate the innovation and diversity that modern music brings, if only for their novelty and the challenge they represent to his own musical constructs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while we can only speculate, Bach’s response to modern classical and art rock compositions would likely depend on the nature of the music itself. Bach would be more prone to find contemporary works entertaining, especially those that resonate with his understanding of structure and harmony, while some radical departures from traditional forms would likely repel him. The modern compositions that challenge and push the boundaries of classical music might offer Bach a fascinating glimpse into how music has evolved and diversified over the centuries, but ultimately, they might not fully align with the core principles that shaped his genius.

Exploring the relationship between Bach and the modern musical landscape is not just a theoretical exercise; it serves as a reminder of how the foundations laid by classical composers continue to influence and shape the music of today. As composers and musicians continue to innovate and push the boundaries of melody and harmony, we must also respect and appreciate the immense legacy left by Bach and other classical masters, whose works continue to guide and inspire us in our musical journeys.