In the last two years, Meinolf Brüser has been able to solve some of the great mysteries of Bach research in two books using a methodology honed by his legal experience. This concerns in particular the occasions for Bach's funeral motets, especially "Singet dem Herrn", which he was able to prove was a motet for a deceased alumnus of St Thomas's School. Brüser was able to gain insights into Bach's musical techniques for referring to non-musical occasions. On the basis of his findings, he has now also succeeded in deciphering what is perhaps the greatest mystery of Bach research, namely why the last fugue of the "Kunst der Fuge", Bach's late masterpiece that was only published after his death, breaks off. The results are spectacular.
On this evening, Meinolf Brüser will introduce the "Kunst der Fuge", explain his investigation, which includes aspects of art and philosophical history, and also play some parts. The abortive fugue harbours a secret that has not yet been seen, but which Bach was determined to discover and which provides an insight into his thinking and self-image at the end of his life.
Meinolf Brüser initially studied law in Cologne and was active in various Cologne early music ensembles during this time. He went on to study church music and three years of early music at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, where he studied historical organ playing with Jean-Claude Zehnder. He then took up his legal practice, which led him to Berlin. He directs the Renaissance vocal ensemble Josquin Capella and performs as a harpsichordist and organist. Brüser holds a doctorate in law and a doctorate in musicology. His dissertation "Wenn Bach trauert. Die Motetten Johann Sebastian Bachs neu verstanden" was published by Bärenreiter-Verlag in 2023, followed in 2024 by "Es ist alles Windhauch. Bach und das Geheimnis der "Kunst der Fuge".
Works by J. S. Bach
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Die Kunst der Fuge (BWV 1080)
Venue
Accessibility:
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Catering offer:
Ja, Getränke und Essen
Organiser
Tickets
Prices:
6,00 € bis 67,00 €
incl. VAT, free shipping
More information
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Duration of the event:
19:00 – 21:00
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In which language:
German
Meinolf Brüser © Dominika Bonk
The facade of the Cafe Luitpold © SALON LUITPOLD
Organiser
SALON LUITPOLD
SALON LUITPOLD has established itself in the best sense of the word as an address for sophisticated dialogue on topics and issues that are timely or deserve more light. The 100 or so seats in the Palmengarten are usually reserved well in advance and the audience is a colourful mix. The increased interest in the analogue exchange of opinions, generations and between disciplines may be a sign of the times – but the urban coffee house has a long history dating back to 1888 and is an ideal location for a festival café in the middle of the city.
