The "Notes on . . ." series by distinguished music critic Conrad Wilson illuminates the music of some of history's greatest composers in relation to their private lives. In each "Notes on . . ." volume Wilson selects twenty crucial works of a given composer, discusses these masterpieces with insight and verve, and explains why these particular works are fundamental to understanding the composer. As a bonus Wilson highlights choice recordings of the music he discusses. Meant for any general reader interested in music, these guidebooks are ideal for dipping into as well as reading straight through.For many music lovers, J. S. Bach is a perpetually sober and serious composer, frowning out of pictures on book and CD covers. Wilson reminds listeners that those who only heard Bach's music might imagine him as vivacious, even romantic, and shows why Bach continues to intrigue and influence the music scene.