Attraction Guide: Bach Church, Arnstadt, Germany

Bach Church Guide

Bach Church: Where a Musical Legend Began Guide

Step back in time and immerse yourself in musical history at the Bach Church (Bachkirche) in Arnstadt, Germany. This beautiful church holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers as it was here that Johann Sebastian Bach served as organist from 1703 to 1707. While the original church where Bach played no longer stands, the current building, completed in 1913, commemorates his time in Arnstadt and celebrates his enduring legacy. The original church, known as the New Church, was where the young Bach, at the age of 18, took up his first professional position. He was responsible for playing the organ and composing music for the church services. However, his tenure was not without its challenges. Bach's innovative and sometimes unconventional musical style clashed with the expectations of the church authorities, leading to some friction. Despite these difficulties, his time in Arnstadt was crucial in shaping his musical development. The current Bach Church houses a museum dedicated to Bach's life and work, showcasing artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of his time in Arnstadt and his lasting impact on music history. Visitors to the Bach Church can explore the museum, admire the beautiful architecture of the church, and attend concerts and recitals featuring Bach's music. The church also hosts regular organ concerts, allowing visitors to experience the sound of the organ that Bach himself would have played. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Bach House, another important site in Arnstadt dedicated to Bach's life and work. While in Arnstadt, be sure to try some traditional Thuringian cuisine, such as Thüringer Klöße (potato dumplings) and Rostbratwurst (grilled sausage).