Mornings With Bach
Johann Sebastian Bach was born on this day in 1685. (Or alternatively, on 31 March 1685.)
His music is wonderful studying music. It makes the mind receptive, able to hold onto the subject you are learning about, find the essence of the topic or the most interesting angle and thesis that you want to present. It also makes you feel grateful to everything that you have been given. It is music that feels like early spring: birds chirping in the new sun, the soil waking up, the sudden good mood we feel when we detect buds on the bushes and plants pushing through the ground, the relief and joy about the first signs of warmth in the year. A pleasant wind brings fresh air, a fine breeze carries the fragrance of spring messengers…(Bach was born in early spring, after all!)
His compositions stimulate a friendly, accepting alertness and inner harmony; my guess is, through its effect on the heart beat. There is emphasis and drama, but never stress or harshness. On the contrary, the music has no erratic surprises and it is the opposite of stress.
Johann Sebastian wrote prolifically and by his own admission, he edited a lot too. His intent was to please God.
His concerts are quite suitable for sowing seeds in this time of the year, for soothing pets and young children, for the mornings and early day insights that you are trying to extend and linger in.
I especially like his cello compositions.
21 March 2021
