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| | Bach, J. S.: Arnstadt (1703-1707) |
 | | In its reprimand the town council noted, unfairly, that Bach was neglecting the composition of figural music (technically not one of his contractual duties). |
 | | Each time Bach replied that in his view, as organist, this was not his responsibility, and that if the church wanted someone to attend to these duties they should hire a choir director, which they absolutely could not afford to do considering the high salary they were paying their organist. |
 | | The Consistory was remarkably patient, even generous, with Bach, but it was an uncomfortable relationship, and in 1707, to the relief of the authorities, Bach removed himself. |
| jan.ucc.nau.edu /~tas3/arnstadt.html (1295 words) |
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