Johann Sebastian Bach significantly influenced Western music through his mastery of counterpoint and harmony. His compositions, including the Brandenburg Concertos and the Mass in B minor, showcase intricate musical structures and emotional depth. Bach's ability to weave complex melodies and develop various forms, such as the fugue, established foundational techniques for future composers. His work exemplified the culmination of the Baroque style, influencing the transition to the Classical era. Bach’s music remains central to both performance practice and music education, continually inspiring musicians and composers worldwide.