Johann Ludwig Krebs

German composer and organist Johann Ludwig Krebs was born on 10 February 1713 near Weimar, the son of another composer and organist, Johann Tobias Krebs. The younger Krebs became one of J S Bach's best pupils at the Leipzig Thomasschule, his teacher punning that Krebs was the 'best crayfish in the brook' ('Krebs' being German for crayfish and 'bach' meaning 'brook'), and then attended university in the same city.

He spent his professional life as organist at the Marienkirche in Zwickau (from 1737), the Zeitz court (from 1744) and the Altenburg court (from 1755). Some of the music is in a style similar to that of his illustrious teacher - Krebs often used Bach's works as models - whilst some is in the more forward-looking and easy-going 'galant' style. A few compositions (suites and sonatas) were published during his lifetime, but most remained in manuscript. Evidence from the lute concertos points to their composer probably being a good lutenist. Krebs died in Altenburg on New Year's Day 1780.

 

A selection of articles about Johann Ludwig Krebs

Ensemble. Splendidly Thought-out - Mike Wheeler listens to music by J S Bach, Howells, MacMillan, Puccini, Reger, Sibelius and Vaughan Williams from the Sitwell Singers and friends

CD Spotlight. Modelled on Bach - Krebs' harpsichord music, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... brimming with colour, energy and rhythmic beauty ...'

Fire and Energy - Peter Gould provides a compelling end to Derby Cathedral's summer organ series, heard by Mike Wheeler

Technique and Musicianship - Tony Westerman is impressed by the organ playing of Tom Corfield

Ensemble. A Sense of Joy - The Gough Duo at Derby Cathedral impresses Tony Westerman

Wacky and Serious - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Ben Bloor's command of the Derby Cathedral organ

Outstanding Playing - An organ recital by John Kitchen, heard by Mike Wheeler

Admirable Clarity - Andrew Kirk at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Quiet Dignity - Organist David Pipe at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Triumphant Climax - Five organists at two organs open this year's series of Derby Cathedral organ recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Ideas in abundance - Johann Ludwig Krebs on Priory, appreciated by Robert Anderson. '... a performance at once robust and sensitive.'

CD Spotlight - Rarity in performance. '... the playing is lively and full of spirit, and this disc is to be recommended.' Works for 2 harpsichords with David Ponsford