Bodleian Libraries Acquire Rare Bach Manuscript
A rare autograph manuscript by composer Johann Sebastian Bach has been acquired by the University of Oxford’s Bodleian Libraries
Last updated 15th Mar 2024
The Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford have acquired a rare and valuable manuscript by the esteemed composer Johann Sebastian Bach. The autograph manuscript of his cantata "Auf Christi Himmelfahrt allein" (BWV 128) was obtained through the Acceptance in Lieu Scheme, allowing the public to view and appreciate this cultural treasure.
Known as the Kohn manuscript, the document offers a fascinating glimpse into Bach's creative process, demonstrating his swiftness and elegance in writing. The manuscript, which is one of only four in the UK in the hand of the great composer, has been accepted in lieu of Inheritance tax by HM Government in 2024 and allocated to the Bodleian. The manuscript will go on public display from 15 March 2024 as part of the free exhibition Write, Cut, Rewrite, which is open until 5 January 2025 in the Weston Library’s Treasury, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the creative process of drafting, reviewing, and editing.
The acquisition is a significant moment for Bach scholarship in the UK and marks the first autograph score by Bach to be housed at the Bodleian Libraries. The manuscript will be digitized and made accessible through the library's Digital Bodleian platform and the Bach Digital online portal.
This exciting acquisition highlights the enduring significance of Bach's music and the vital role of libraries and institutions in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. The Bodleian Libraries invite scholars, students, and music enthusiasts to engage with this remarkable piece of history and celebrate Bach's enduring legacy.