Understanding the intersection of political history and the arts is central to the Humanities. This program examines one of these important intersections. In May, 1747, Johann Sebastian Bach met Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, at his Sans Souci palace. This famous meeting resulted in one of Bach’s masterpieces, A Musical Offering. In presenting the background story to A Musical Offering, this program emphasizes the importance of J. S. Bach as both the most revered composer of his age and as one criticized for being “old fashioned.” It also illuminates the role of nobility, and Frederick in particular, in the patronage of eighteenth century music. The Akademie für Alte Music, Berlin, one of the most celebrated period instrument ensembles in Europe, performs the Trio Sonata from A Musical Offering, filmed in the stunning rooms and gardens of Frederick’s Sans Souci Palace.
Produced and Directed by Eugene Enrico.
Funded, in part, by Oklahoma Humanities and NEH.
DVD, 58:30
