I’m following in the footsteps of Bach. Sure, by playing his various Inventions and delving into counterpoint, yes, I have been following his method of mastering the piano. But truly, I’ve been following in his footsteps for the last few months by being a church musician and dedicating my talents to the Lord.
I figure, what other reason would I have to play piano? My own fame? It is highly unlikely that I myself am the next Bach. I passed the point where I could qualify as a virtuoso years ago. Playing for someone who transcends time itself (Our Lord Jesus Christ) is the goal I should have in mind. This is the exact same goal Bach himself aimed for.
“The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.”
-Johann Sebastian Bach
Amen to that. Can we get a few more amens?
Bach is still heralded to this day as revolutionizing the world of music. Yes, even more so than Michael Jackson. To this day, Bach’s Mass in B Minor is considered one of the greatest pieces of music ever composed.
It certainly will stick with you after you hear it. I don’t know what makes Bach’s Mass in B Minor one of the greatest pieces of music ever composed… But the fact of the matter is, Bach was a revolutionary who dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the advancement of music. Not only for the delight of man but for the glory of God.
He paved the way for hundreds of other revolutionaries thereafter, and notably to a certain Frederic Chopin (Whose music I enjoy, along with other millions of Chopin admirers for sure.) Chopin would warm up before concerts by playing Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier”. He knew them all by heart. He adored the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. It seems Chopin followed in the footsteps of Bach, too!
So, to all you classically trained musicians using your talents in church – Press on my friends, by dedicating your talent first off to God, you are on your way to greatness. Keep following in the footsteps of our friend Johann Sebastian Bach!
Yep! I’ll agree to that quote, so I’ll add an amen! I absolutely love classical music and that’s part of the reason why. They were so much more godly than the musicians of today.
I mean, they had their weird issues, like Beethoven swinging his arms in public or Tchaikovsky having to hold his head up when he conducted because he was afraid it would fall off.
But those like Bach and Handel, their music was for a greater purpose-and they realized that! I don’t know much about those two in particular, but I do know that compared to this generation, they were much more honorable.
“by dedicating your talent first off to God, you are on your way to greatness” — and that’s applicable to everyone! I’m going into the field of art and design, and I know I stand out like a sore thumb in school. I’ve had to get up and walk out of two presentations because I prefer to keep my artwork and myself dedicated to God, and walking out let the whoooooole class know that 🙂
Hey Alyssa!
Thanks for the comment! It’s true, music is a lot different from back in the day. There was a lot more dedication to the science of music and not so much the business half of it. Unfortunately a lot of music today is generated just to make a mint for some people.
I’m glad to hear you stood up for yourself! That’s great! Keep on dedicating your all to God and you can rest peacefully knowing you have trusted Him with your talent! (It’s the only thing that keeps me sane sometimes, haha!)
Thanks again for the great comment, I appreciate your feedback a lot!! 🙂