J.S. Bach was known for his #ornate melodies. Interestingly my reading today was in 1 Chronicles 25 where musicians are set forth like an army in twenty-four divisions. Bach loved this chapter and actually made a handwritten note in his Bible about it. John W. Olley notes this saying,
“Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750), the influential European composer and musical director at the prestigious St. Thomas Church, Leipzig, for twenty-seven years, said of this chapter that it was the foundation of all God-pleasing church music. Music, along with other aspects of temple service, was established by God himself (1 Chron. 28:21) to proclaim his Word, with him being graciously present (2 Chron. 5:13–14)” (ESV Expository, emphasis mine).
Bach furthermore was known to sign his works with SDG meaning Soli Deo Gloria, to the glory of God alone! A reformation emphasis.
Moreover, Bach had a musical signature that is designed to reflect the Cross. His music was ornately adorned so as to convey an internal beauty, goodness, and truth.
