Robert Peters writes:

>For me, a lover of Lieder, the words set to music are very important.

For me, the words only have significance because of the music.  As you
might gather, I rarely liisten to Lieder.  I seem to have no patience
for it, usually wanting the singer to take a break.

>They were the starting point for the composer's imagination.

I don't doubt that, and even I would use the words for inspiration.
But Bach *didn't need* inspirational text to compose masterpieces, as
evidenced by his equally wonderful instrumental music.

>Bach WANTED to set the Gospel according to St. John to music not Anna
>Magdalena's shopping list.

Yes, but what do you think would have been on Anna's list?  Don't be so
sure that she wouldn't have any items that might inspire a composer to
churn out a tune or two.  Seriously, I'd wager that Bach could have
written great music to just about any stimuli.

>So, are you an idealist or a materialist?

Some of both - we humans are complex organisms.  I have my basic
personality which places little weight on spirituality.  However, I feel
much spirituality from music, always have.  That's a prime reason why I
turn to it so frequently.

Don Satz
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