LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Johann Sebastian Bach: Musical Offering
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Bach's theology ... informed his compositional structures: Sei Gegrüsset is perhaps the finest example where there is a theme with 11 variations (making 12 movements) that, while still one work, becomes two sets of six—to match Lutheran preaching principles of repetition. At the same time the theological interpretation of 'master' and 11 disciples would not be lost on his contemporary audience. Further, the practical relationship of each variation to the next (in preparing registration and the expected textural changes) seems to show an incredible capacity to preach through the music using the musical forms available at the time.
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With inspirations that celebrated depth and complexity, Bach was a genius of counterpoint, the ability to combine two or more different lines of music into a harmonious stream. He astounded the musical world with the inventiveness of his fusion.
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In terms of pure music, Bach has become known as one who could combine the rhythm of French dances, the gracefulness of Italian song, and the intricacy of German counterpoint—all in one composition. In addition, Bach could write musical equivalents of verbal ideas, such as undulating a melody to represent the sea.
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