The name of Johann Sebastian Bach is synonymous with musical genius. In conservatory and college classrooms around the globe, his works are used as a blueprint for studying harmony. His death in 1750 would inspire historians to mark this year as the end of the baroque period. In fact, Bach’s music was “out of fashion” in the decades preceding his demise – and yet, he indefatigably pursued his signature complex, polyphonic style in a time when audiences were craving simplicity. During this program, Professor Gil Harel will delve into the musical Zeitgeist of a European society that was fast embracing the tenets of the Enlightenment. Swimming against this inexorable current, J.S. Bach created iconic works such as the Goldberg Variations, The Art of the Fugue, The Musical Offering, and more. Using a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Harel will analyze selected works and discuss the legacy of a composer who continues to inspire listeners in a way that Bach himself surely could never have fathomed. Provided by the CAST Senior Center, our Documentary Programs provide an endless variety of interesting subjects in a prerecorded, professional film format. They take us across the country and around the world, experiencing and learning about places and people which we wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to experience. Our documentaries are entertaining, informative, and inspiring. They offer a unique and powerful form of storytelling that captures your attention and provoke thought and discussion. Scheduled every Tuesday afternoon, unless noted, at 1pm at the CAST Senior Center, our Documentary Programs are free and open to the public. There are no membership dues and everyone is welcome to attend. Programming is provided by Curiosity U and other online providers. Check out our documentary program schedule every month and join us. We look forward to seeing you!