Johann Sebastian Bach - His Work and Influence on the Music of Germany, 1685-1750 #260641

Esner's successor as rector of the Thomasschule was Johann August Ernesti,1 who in 1732 had been appointed Conrector. Ernesti, born in 1707, was still very young when he was placed at the head of the school; but he was qualified for the post by his learning and accomplish ments, grounded on a thorough knowledge of the authors of antiquity, and by a conspicuous talent for methodical teaching. Under his guidance the school made wonderful progress, and in this respect he was worthy to succeed Gesner, whom he even excelled in his writings by their lucidity, accuracy, and a high and pure standard Of Latinity. On the other hand, he lacked the geniality, the sympathetic kindliness, and the breadth of culture by which Gesner's highly successful work had been carried out, as well as his judgment and delicate tact. Ernesti held the place of Rector till 1759, when he accepted a professorial Chair in the University.