but
in reality he is very much alive in Arnstadt. A small Bach museum is in
the market-place, and there are frequent Bach concerts, although for the
time being seldom in the church. However, by the year 2000, the 250th anniversay
of Bach's death, the "Bachkirche" is projected to be completely
renovated, new heating installed, and totally functional, albeit at a cost
of ca. 3 million dollars. Bach will "live again," and we will
be able to hear his music played on the original Bach organ, preserved,
and totally renovated from Bach's time in Arnstadt.Many churches need extensive renovation at this time, and the church in Dornheim, "Bartholomäuskirche," ca. three miles from Arnstadt is no exception. This is where Bach married Maria Barbara (the young girl that he "made music with" in the organ loft) in 1707.
Although it was first built in the 12th century, and underwent many changes
over the centuries, the organ is totally functional, and the roof of the
church has been repaired, but the walls, the floor, the heating, etc. are
in need of serious renovation. Until then, although a delightful, small
church, it is totally unuseable.As an aside the woman who looks after the church lived next door, and my friends went over, contacted her, and she came immediately to unlock the church and show us the interior, - what phenominal hospitality in these small towns!