Johann Christian Bach

1735-1782

We like to refer to this website as finding works by lesser known composers or lesser known works by well known composers. We could add a whole subsection for works by lesser known members of the Bach family!

When people refer to Bach, they usually mean Johann Sebastian Bach. Yet so many of his family members also composed, some prolifically, some rather well, but none really the equal of J.S.

His youngest son Johann Christian was no slouch. Born in Leipzig, he spent much of his adult life in England and is said to have been an influence on both Mozart and Haydn.

He composed a number of operas and his output of other instrumental pieces was voluminous he was also one of the finest pianists in London of his time. He was painted by Thomas Gainsborough - see below.

Whilst in London he performed regularly with another German composer of renown (although largely overlooked today), Carl Abel.

Sadly his style of music fell out of fashion and he died in London in poverty.

Here is his Concerto in D minor for Keyboard, Strings & Bass continuo