Baroque composer Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750), born on this day in Eisenach, Germany, is remembered for music of astonishing depth and spiritual power. His compositions did not simply entertain. They lifted the heart, stretched the mind, and gave form to devotion.

The brilliant pianist Frédéric Chopin once said, “Bach is like an astronomer who, with the help of ciphers, finds the most wonderful stars.”

A child prodigy who lost both parents at a young age, Bach became an extraordinary organist and composer, writing with uncommon discipline and passion. With reverence for his Lutheran faith, more than half of his nearly 1,000 compositions were created in its honor.

Bach often inscribed the initials S.D.G. on his manuscripts, meaning Soli Deo Gloria—“To God alone be the glory.” For him, music was joy and devotion, offered daily to God.

“I have worked hard. Anyone who works just as hard will go just as far,” he said. “Ceaseless work, analysis, reflection, writing much, endless self-correction, that is my secret.”

With rare depth and complexity, Bach became a genius of counterpoint, the art of weaving two or more independent lines of music into one harmonious whole. He astonished the musical world with the inventiveness of that fusion.

“Study Bach,” advised classical composer Johannes Brahms. “There you will find everything.”

Bach spoke of his talent with characteristic humility: “There is nothing remarkable about it. All one has to do is hit the right keys at the right time and the instrument plays itself.”

Nearly three centuries after his death, Bach’s music continues to be studied and performed around the world. His work remains beloved as a refreshment for the spirit.