Johann David Heinichen

Baroque German Composer and Music Theorist

Johann David Heinichen (1683 – 1729) was a German Baroque composer and music theorist who served as the court Kapellmeister in Dresden. Born in Krössuln, he initially studied law at the University of Leipzig but soon devoted himself entirely to music. After spending some time in Italy, where he absorbed the Italian musical style, Heinichen secured a post in Dresden at the court of Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. His tenure in Dresden was marked by significant contributions to the court's musical life, including operas, church music, and instrumental works. Heinichen was known for his innovative orchestration and his mastery of counterpoint and harmony. He also wrote an important treatise on thorough-bass (continuo playing), "Der General-Bass in der Composition," which provided valuable insights into Baroque performance practice. Although not as widely recognized today as some of his contemporaries, Heinichen's music is appreciated for its inventive qualities and its role in bridging the styles of the late Baroque period.