Composer, born in Magdeburg, Germany. He studied at Leipzig, and taught himself music by learning to play a wide range of instruments and studying the scores of the masters. He held several posts as Kapellmeister, notably at Frankfurt (1712--21), and became musical director of the Johanneum at Hamburg from 1721 until his death. A prolific composer, his works include church music, 46 passions, over 40 operas, oratorios, many songs, and a large body of instrumental music.