This major study of the composer's life and work follows the course of Bach's career in rich detail - from his humble beginnings as an organ tuner and self-taught musician, to his role as Kapellmeister and cantor of St. Thomas' Church in Leipzig. It explores Bach's relations with the German aristocracy, the Church and contemporary theological debates, his perfectionism, and his role as the devoted head of a large family. The author also carefully analyses Bach's innovations in harmony and counterpoint, placing them in the context of European musical and social history.