Johann Philipp Kirnberger

German Baroque Composer and Music Theorist

Johann Philipp Kirnberger (1721–1783) was a German musician and composer, primarily known for his association with Johann Sebastian Bach, under whom he studied. Kirnberger became one of the most respected music theorists of the 18th century. His career spanned various roles; he was a violinist at the court of Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Köthen and later served as a musician in the court of Frederick the Great of Prussia. Kirnberger's theoretical works, such as "Die Kunst des reinen Satzes in der Musik" (The Art of Strict Musical Composition), were influential in the development of musical thought, particularly in regards to counterpoint and harmony. He also contributed to the preservation and dissemination of Bach's works, advocating for their importance and teaching them to his students. While Kirnberger himself composed music, his legacy is most strongly felt through his theoretical writings and his role as an educator and advocate for the music of Bach.