by Rebecca Cochran
In 1723, harpsichordist and composer, Christoph Graupner (1683-1760) applied for the position of kantor in Leipzig. Telemann had already turned down a job offer there after receiving a salary increase in Hamburg. When Graupner’s employer in Darmstadt increased his salary, Graupner decided to remain in his present position.
J.S. Bach, Leipzig’s third choice, became kantor. When Graupner heard this news, he wrote to the city council in Leipzig attesting that Bach "is a musician just as strong on the organ as he is expert in church works and capelle pieces" and a man who "will honestly and properly perform the functions entrusted to him.”
Although Graupner was a prolific composer, his works have remained mostly unknown. Perhaps his more important role was in paving the way for Bach’s success in Leipzig!
In 1723, harpsichordist and composer, Christoph Graupner (1683-1760) applied for the position of kantor in Leipzig. Telemann had already turned down a job offer there after receiving a salary increase in Hamburg. When Graupner’s employer in Darmstadt increased his salary, Graupner decided to remain in his present position.
J.S. Bach, Leipzig’s third choice, became kantor. When Graupner heard this news, he wrote to the city council in Leipzig attesting that Bach "is a musician just as strong on the organ as he is expert in church works and capelle pieces" and a man who "will honestly and properly perform the functions entrusted to him.”
Although Graupner was a prolific composer, his works have remained mostly unknown. Perhaps his more important role was in paving the way for Bach’s success in Leipzig!
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