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December 31, 2002
Santa Cruz, California
Received by F.A.B.
I am here, Johann Sebastian Bach.
I greet you on this last day of the year to tell you of my love.
I have had quite a happy spirit experience, and now reside in the
Celestial Heavens.
The formal expressions of a creative genius are, of course, extraordinary.
When experiencing great art or great music, the mortal person is,
from one point of view, not earthly, but is transported to a higher
sphere of existence. There is a field of study here about such matters.
I did not, when on earth, have a clear idea about my greatness
as a composer. I knew I had a mastery of technique. But, as you
know, I seldom heard my music performed properly at Leipzig, and
I was not acknowledged as a great composer. Also, I was humble about
my gift. So, I was very pleased as I saw my stature grow. Now I
realize the extent of the gift I had. But by the time my earthly
reputation was secure, I had ceased caring about such matters.
Of course, as you well understand, I was initially disappointed
to discover that many of my Lutheran beliefs were false. For awhile
it was hard to make the transition to what I now believe. But I
did make the transition, and now, looking back, I have trouble understanding
how I could have believed as I did.
On a personal note, know that you will accomplish what you were
born for. I am referring to your composing. You will be guided to
resume composing at the appropriate time.
I was a mortal of deep feeling. I really cared about my family and
about people in general. I had, as you know, a stubborn streak,
which at times put me at odds with the authorities. I was consoled
knowing that at least I had recognition as a great organist.
I believed almost perfunctorily in the Lutheran creed - that was
the truth as far as I was concerned. But as everyone now acknowledges,
my music was universal.
Composition came easy for me. I did not often labor over notes the
way other composers have done. I worked in my head, working out
the details. It was my mind that "saw" the music, and
how the different parts and instruments cohered. I had studied very
zealously the music of my contemporaries and my predecessors. It
was a very natural process for me to compose based on what I had
learned.
Mine was a very busy life. With all the children and my various
posts, I seldom had free time (aside from time for composing), and
in truth, did not feel bad about this, as I liked the idea of keeping
busy - it was something in my German character.
I was proud of my children when they achieved success, and was heartened
that four of my sons turned to composing.
I will be writing again. Let me close by wishing
you a Happy New Year.
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