A major cultural and trade center, Leipzig has a rich history of classical music. Wagner was born here; Mendelssohn established a conservatory here in 1843; and Johann Sebastian Bach worked as Kapellmeister at the Thomaskirche (St Thomas Church) from 1723 until his death in 1750. His remains are buried near the altar. Today, it is home to the world-famous Gewandhous Orchestra and the 800-year-old Thomanerchor boys choir.