So if you were to try to compile a list of the 10 greatest composers in history, how would you go about it? For me the resulting list would not be the point. But the process of coming up with such a list might be clarifying and instructive, as well as exasperating and fun.

Anthony Tommasini asks the question. He helps out a bit by focusing on Western classical music, omitting anything prior to late Baroque and living composers.

Me? Man, this is a toughie. Bach, Mozart & Beethoven are musts. But who else will I have? I’m gonna think on this.

He agrees with Bach: