Germany has given the world an unparalleled gift of timeless music, with renowned composers whose works continue to captivate audiences even today. Their melodies are recognized and cherished worldwide, a testament to the musical value that German artists have brought to us. An excellent way to explore the world of German composers is to start with the famous "three big B's" - Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750), Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827), and Johannes Brahms (1833-1897). These geniuses produced countless symphonies, piano works, and choral compositions. Bach's music was highly inspired by his Christian faith, with interpretations of the Bible expressed through music. He wrote many church cantatas and often inscribed his sheet music with the initials I.N.J / N.J (In the name of Jesus, or Nomine Jesu) as a tribute to his faith.

 

 

Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 has become the melody for the European Anthem, an indication of the universal appeal of his music. Johannes Brahms' compositions were often based on biblical texts, with his "A German Requiem" being a prime example. With these "big B's" in mind, we can already name some of the most prominent German composers. Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706) is best known for his "Canon in D," a composition that evokes a world of serene beauty. Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) and Richard Wagner (1813-1883) are two vastly different German composers who have left an indelible mark on the German musical canon. Mendelssohn, despite being born and raised as a Christian, was sadly considered an unfortunate outsider due to his Jewish background, and one of his memorials was destroyed in a senseless act of vandalism. However, his music, including the famous wedding march, remains a masterpiece among German works. Wagner, on the other hand, is famous for his epic operas, including the Ring Cycle. Other great German composers include Robert Schumann, Richard Strauss, and George Handel, all of whom have contributed to the rich and diverse musical heritage of Germany.