Bach's Fight for Freedom
From Devine Entertainment Specials · 1995
53 min3rd4th5th6thMusicSocial Studies
Summary
Set in an early-18th-century Prussian dukedom, this Emmy-nominated drama finds a frustrated Johann Sebastian Bach working as a court organist for a duke who stifles his music. When a poor, free-thinking boy named Frederick is assigned as his servant, the two recognize kindred souls who both long to follow their own hearts. The score is built around Bach's Brandenburg Concertos.
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Ages 7+
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Bach and a young servant boy discover they both want the freedom to follow their own dreams.
- Why was Bach unhappy working for the duke, even though he had a good job?
- What did Bach and Frederick have in common, despite being so different?
- How does the music in the film help you feel Bach's determination?
- When has it been hard for you to do something your own way? What did you do?
Quick work-a-long
Words to know: composer, organist, concerto, freedom
- Listen for a moment where the music sounds bold or determined. Describe how it sounds.
- Bach wrote for a duke he disagreed with. Name one thing you'd want to create if you could make anything you wanted.