All eyes and ears on Bach – Honouring the legacy of a Baroque genius

2025 marks the 275th anniversary of the passing of the world-famous Baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach. To celebrate his legacy, Germany is putting on a varied programme that will attract classical music fans from near and far.

Few names in the history of classical music evoke as much reverence and inspiration as Johann Sebastian Bach. Alongside titans like Beethoven and Brahms, Bach is undeniably one of Germany’s most illustrious and influential artistic exports. His compositions continue to resonate across centuries, touching the hearts of musicians and audiences alike. As the world marks the 275th anniversary of his death, celebrations are in full swing to honour the man whose genius laid the foundation for Western classical music. This remarkable milestone calls for nothing less than an extensive programme of events and immersive Bach-themed travel itineraries.

Bach memorial Mühlhausen. Photo: Thüringen Tourismus Marketing / Florian Trykowski

The legacy

Born in 1685 in Eisenach, Germany, Johann Sebastian Bach was destined to become a master of his craft. His prolific career as a composer, organist, and choirmaster saw him produce an extraordinary body of work, ranging from intricate fugues to soul-stirring cantatas. He was a master of polyphony, weaving complex textures of melody and harmony that remain awe-inspiring to this day. Bach’s compositions, including Christmas Oratorio, Brandenburg Concertos, and the monumental St Matthew Passion, exemplify the Baroque era’s ideal of blending intellectual rigour with emotional depth.

The New York Times once referred to Bach as “the most important classical musician of all time,” a sentiment echoed by countless scholars and performers. His influence extends beyond classical music alone, inspiring genres as diverse as jazz, electronic, and even modern pop. Whether it is his ability to explore the depths of human emotion or his mastery of musical form, Bach remains a beacon for creativity and innovation.

Photo: Unsplash

On the 275th anniversary of his passing, which occurred on 28 July, 1750, the world unites to celebrate Bach’s enduring legacy. This year, the commemorations span continents, with a special focus on Germany, where his life and music left an indelible imprint. Cities like Leipzig, Weimar, and Eisenach, where Bach lived and worked, have curated extraordinary programmes to bring his story to life.

In Dresden, the city’s renowned Frauenkirche is hosting a series of organ recitals dedicated to Bach’s works, providing a stirring homage to his talent as an organist and composer. Berlin’s Philharmonic Hall is set to feature an entire week of performances by internationally acclaimed orchestras, showcasing Bach’s orchestral and choral compositions. Scholarly conferences will further be held in Weimar, focusing on Bach’s influence on the evolution of Western music, while smaller towns like Arnstadt, where Bach began his career as an organist, will host intimate performances and community events.

Bach memorial Mühlhausen. Photo: Thüringen Tourismus Marketing / Florian Trykowski

Leipzig: the heart of the Bach universe

Leipzig, where Bach spent the final 27 years of his life as music director at St. Thomas Church, is the epicentre of the anniversary festivities. Home to the renowned Bach Archive and the annual Bach Festival, the city has announced an expanded schedule of performances, exhibitions, and lectures. Visitors can attend concerts featuring Bach’s masterpieces performed by world-class musicians and ensembles, including the St. Thomas Boys Choir, which Bach himself once directed.

The Bach Museum in Leipzig also offers a deep dive into the composer’s personal and professional life. Interactive exhibits detail everything from his family tree to the instruments he played, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the world of this musical giant.

Photo: Unsplash

Eisenach and Weimar: tracing Bach’s roots

In Eisenach, Bach’s birthplace, the celebrations include guided tours of the Bachhaus museum, where visitors can explore period instruments and witness live performances of his works. The town’s medieval streets and landmarks transport visitors back to the era of Bach’s childhood, providing a visceral connection to his origins.

Weimar, another significant location in Bach’s journey, hosts a series of events that highlight his early career as a court musician. The city’s historical sites, such as the Herder Church and the Weimar Court Chapel, serve as backdrops for performances that celebrate Bach’s youthful genius.

Photo: Unsplash

Bach-inspired travel itineraries

For travellers eager to immerse themselves in the world of Bach, specially curated itineraries offer the opportunity to walk in the composer’s footsteps. Tours combine visits to key historical sites with live performances, creating an unforgettable experience for music lovers. Whether attending an organ recital at St. Thomas Church or wandering the picturesque streets of Eisenach, these journeys bring Bach’s legacy to life in vivid detail.

Beyond Germany, Bach’s influence reverberates globally. Major concert halls in cities like New York, London, and Tokyo have joined the celebration, featuring programmes dedicated to his works. Additionally, online platforms have made it possible for audiences worldwide to participate in the festivities through live-streamed concerts and virtual museum tours.

Why Bach matters today

More than two and a half centuries after his death, Bach’s music continues to captivate and inspire. His works are not relics of the past but living, breathing masterpieces that speak to the human condition in profound ways. In an era of rapid technological and cultural change, Bach’s music serves as a reminder of the timeless values of beauty, complexity, and emotional depth.

Musicians and scholars often refer to Bach as a musician’s composer. His works challenge performers with their technical demands while offering endless opportunities for interpretation and expression. For listeners, his music provides solace, joy, and a sense of transcendence that few other composers can match.

As the 275th anniversary of Johann Sebastian Bach’s death unfolds, the programme of events and Bach-inspired itineraries serve as more than a tribute to his genius. They are a testament to the enduring power of his music to inspire generations, transcending borders and eras. Whether you are a seasoned Bach enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this is a moment to celebrate not just a man, but a legacy that has profoundly shaped the way we understand music and its capacity to elevate the human spirit.

Park with St. Thomas church in Leipzig. Photo: Leipzig Tourismus und Marketing GmbH/Philipp Kirschner