A German composer who, while serving as secretary and deputy to the British ambassador in Hamburg, also worked as a music theorist. He received a broad education not limited to music, and debuted as an opera singer and opera composer. He also met the young Handel. He played the leading role in Handel's opera Almira. He was also appointed music director of Hamburg Cathedral and Kapellmeister to the Duke of Holstein. In later years, he suffered from an ear illness and resigned from music-related positions, but continued his activities as a music writer. In particular, his writings provide invaluable insights into the transition from the Baroque to the Classical period, making them indispensable sources for music history research.