An evening to remember

This book focuses on an event late in Bach's life when he was invited by Frederick the Great to perform on all the pianofortes in his palace. He was asked—or rather challenged—to improvise a three-part fugue on the spot, based on a theme played by the king. The royal theme was fiendishly difficult and not well-suited for a fugue. For a six-part fugue, Bach requested more time. This royal theme would later form the basis of the Musikalisches Opfer, which Bach dedicated to Frederick a few weeks afterward.

This event is a staple in every Bach biography, primarily because so little firsthand information is available about him. Therefore, what little exists is treasured. Secondly, it’s notable because it gave rise to one of the most brilliant contrapuntal works Bach ever composed.

Initially, I was a bit skeptical. Since everything we know about Bach has already been analyzed extensively, authors often feel the need to take liberties just to remain original or relevant, especially when a book focuses on a single event. But I was pleasantly surprised.
Gaines uses this event as a lens through which to compare the lives of these two remarkable men while also providing insight into the zeitgeist of the time. The world was in turmoil.

In alternating perspectives, Gaines explores the backgrounds and life stories of both figures. I was already familiar with most of Bach's life, although Gaines does offer some unique insights. He allows himself some speculation but is always clear when he does so.
What I found most fascinating was Frederick the Great's story. His father executed his best friend before his eyes and nearly killed him as well. Severe physical and psychological abuse left deep scars on Frederick’s life. Yet, Frederick became a child of the Enlightenment, while Bach remained a representative of old Lutheran thought.

Gaines convincingly argues that the encounter between Frederick and Bach was more than just a curious anecdote. It was a clash of two worlds and two worldviews.
The exploration of these contrasting ideologies makes the book truly compelling. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.