Which statement best describes the contrast between Bach and Handel as presented?

• A. Bach was cosmopolitan and famous during life; Handel was provincial and known for instrumental works
• B. Bach was provincial and known for instrumental works; Handel was cosmopolitan and famous during life
• C. Bach wrote many operas; Handel wrote no operas
• D. Bach and Handel both primarily wrote operas and were highly popular in Italy

Answer: (B)

Understanding this contrast hinges on geography and genre during their lifetimes. Bach spent most of his career in small German towns, focused on sacred and instrumental music, and wasn’t widely known outside his region. That gives a provincial impression and a reputation rooted in instrumental and liturgical works rather than international fame. Handel, by contrast, built a cosmopolitan career across Europe—especially in London—embracing Italian opera and later English oratorios, which brought him broad recognition during his lifetime. So the statement that best captures the contrast is that Bach was provincial and known for instrumental works, while Handel was cosmopolitan and famous during life. The other options misstate Bach’s focus on operas or imply both composers shared that operatic prominence in Italy.