Johann Sebastian Bach

Bach is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s greatest composers. Aged nine, he met his brother’s teacher Pachelbel (probably just once). As a teenager he journeyed to visit and hear Reincken and Buxtehude, influences both (he was not tempted by Buxtehude’s daughter). Hasse was a friend and admirer, and helped maintain links with Dresden. Telemann, another friend, was godfather to one of his sons. Weiss (for whom Bach may have composed) and Zelenka were, like Hasse, visitors to his house, and similarly are taken to have been friends as much as professional colleagues. Bach tried twice to meet Handel, but unsuccessfully.