Johann Valentin Rathgeber

First music lessons from his father; studied theology in Würzburg, first position as tutor and organist at the Juliusspital in Würzburg; in 1707 musician and valet to the abbot of Banz monastery, joined the Benedictine order; worked as organist, choirmaster and preacher. From 1729 to 1738, he undertook a study trip through Germany, Austria and Switzerland for musical research, which was not authorised by the abbot; after his return, he was imprisoned in the monastery prison, then renewed his vows and re-admitted to the order. Rathgeber created numerous sacred vocal works and works for keyboard instruments.