He was born in 1685 in Germany, where he remained for the rest of his 65-year-long life. He was a composer, organist, and harpsichordist of the Baroque era, one of the greatest composers and pillars of universal culture. His works are important for their intellectual depth, technical perfection, and artistic beauty.

He wrote more than 1,000 works, including almost an equal number of vocal and instrumental compositions.

He did nothing to popularize his cantatas and passions. He was unaware of the magnitude and significance of his work, nor of the fact that it would become a symbol of the music of his era.