Here are the reasons why Bach's inventions were considered so important:
Teaching Material: Bach's inventions served primarily as teaching material for his students and aspiring musicians of his time. They provide a systematic approach to learning compositional techniques and mastering keyboard playing.
Technical Mastery: The inventions focus on developing technical mastery in playing two-part counterpoint, which is foundational in creating melodic lines that intertwine harmoniously.
Complexity in Simplicity: While appearing simple on the surface, the inventions present complex contrapuntal ideas that require advanced understanding of melody, rhythm, and harmony.
Harmonic and Melodic Development: By practicing and analyzing the inventions, musicians could improve their harmonic and melodic skills, creating more expressive and sophisticated compositions.
Influence on Future Generations: Bach's inventions had a profound impact on subsequent composers, becoming models for composing fugal works and influencing composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and later Classical and Romantic era musicians.
Overall, Bach's inventions were considered important due to their effectiveness in teaching contrapuntal techniques, contributing to the development of more complex and expressive music, and inspiring future generations of musicians and composers.