About this display

Bach: A Composer’s Obsession celebrates our recent acquisition of an autograph manuscript of J.S. Bach, his cantata for Ascension Day 1725 Auf Christi Himmelfahrt allein (BWV 128).

The manuscript is shown alongside a small selection of items which illustrate the importance of Bach in the life and work of a later composer, Felix Mendelssohn, whose advocacy for his musical hero played a big part in the revival of interest in Bach’s music in the nineteenth century and beyond.

The cantata will receive a tercentenary performance in the Sheldonian Theatre on 7 May 2025.