Telemann in Leipzig



What connects Telemann with Leipzig?
Although Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767) rejected the job of the Thomaskantor which was offered to him, he made a significant contribution to the Leipzig Music History. As a law student, Telemann played with the Collegium Musicum which was founded by him and later directed by Johann Sebastian Bach. The ensemble of up to 40 musicians also played at the Leipzig Opera, which the law student also was in charge of from 1702 onwards. Telemann composed some 20 operas in Leipzig, he also composed the texts and sang the roles in part. From 1704 Telemann finally became the city’s University Music Director.