The most distinguished of Johann Sebastian Bach's pupils, Johann Ludwig Krebs had his early lessons from his father before entering the Thomasschule in Leipzig, where Bach had moved in 1723 as Cantor. In 1735 Bach had provided his pupil with a testimonial, recommending him as a musician of distinction, a player of the keyboard, violin and lute and a proficient composer. He occupied important posts in Zwickau and Zeitz before finally, in 1755, settling at Altenburg as organist at the court of Prince Friedrich of Gotha-Altenburg. Krebs was highly regarded by his contemporaries as an organist and as a composer. His style reflects that of his teacher, modified at times by the developments of the second half of the century. At the same time he did much to preserve works by Bach that he copied, both as a pupil and in subsequent years.