Johann Tobias Krebs

Full biography Johann Tobias Krebs

Johann Tobias Krebs (1690-1762) was a German composer and organist of the Baroque era. He is known for his works in vocal, chamber, and keyboard music. Krebs was born in Buttelstedt and was the son of Johann Bernhard Krebs, Kantor and organist of the town. He began to study music with his father, and at a young age, he attracted the attention of Johann Sebastian Bach, who taught him organ and composition. Krebs served as organist in Buttstadt, Weissenfels, Zeitz, and Altenburg until his retirement in 1755.

Krebs composed sacred works, including cantatas, as well as secular works, such as dances, sonatas, and fugues. Some of his works have been attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach due to their similarity in style. One of his most famous works is the Chorale Prelude "Allein Gott in der Höh' sei Ehr," which has been frequently performed on the organ.

Krebs was a respected music teacher, and among his pupils were his own sons Johann Ludwig Krebs and Johann Christian Krebs, as well as Johann Philipp Kirnberger. His influence on the next generation of composers is evidenced by his son Johann Ludwig Krebs , who became a notable composer in his own right and was also a student of Johann Sebastian Bach.

Overall, Johann Tobias Krebs was a talented composer and organist of the Baroque era who played an important role in the development of music during his time.