The music of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was the high point and culmination of the Baroque period of music.  He is arguably the most important and influential composer of Western art music, as almost every subsequent composer looked to Bach's music for instruction and inspiration.

The class will present the many genres of music for which Bach is so well known: organ, keyboard, chamber, orchestral, cantatas, the St. Matthew Passion, and Mass in B minor.  The goals of this annual class are to introduce listeners to great music and enhance musical enjoyment, including specific ideas of how and what to listen for in the music, as well as background on the composer, his time, and culture.  

This six-week course, taught by Dr. Derald DeYoung, will provide an overview of Bach's compositions, featuring video performances by world-class soloists and orchestras. No previous musical experience is necessary. 

Dr. DeYoung is a Professor of Music Emeritus from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI, where he taught for 27 years before moving to Estes Park full-time in 2005. Over the past 18 years, Dr. DeYoung has led music study courses covering the compositions of Stravinsky, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Bach, Strauss, and many others.

The series will be offered each Tuesday from January 13, 2026, through February 17, 2026. Participants may choose to register for a morning (10 AM-12 PM) or afternoon (1-3 PM) session. The morning session will be offered in person and on Zoom; the afternoon session will be offered in person only. Upon registering for the first session, you will automatically be registered for all sessions.