Telemann, Georg Philipp

Telemann, Georg Philipp (1681-1767), German composer, whose work served as a bridge between Baroque and early Classical styles. He was born in Magdeburg, Prussia (now in Germany) of a line of Lutheran pastors, and educated at the University of Leipzig. Largely self-taught in a number of musical instruments, Telemann held various posts with churches and private orchestras in Leipzig, Sorau (now Zary, Poland), and Eisenach until 1721, when he settled in Hamburg; he was to remain there as town music director for the rest of his life.

One of the most prolific of composers, Telemann is an important link between the High Baroque style, as exemplified by the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, and the early Classical style, as exemplified by, for instance, C. P. E. Bach or Gluck. He skilfully combined conventional Baroque counterpoint with graceful italianate melody and the richness of French orchestration.

Telemann's works include 40 operas, 44 passions, 12 annual cycles of cantatas, many oratorios, countless songs, and a large body of instrumental music, which made him among the most successful composers of his generation. His popularity was in decline, however, from his death until his music began to be revived in the 1930s. Since then much of his work has been recorded, and his music continues to be performed on the concert stage.