Marpurg, Friedrich Wilhelm (1718–1795)

German theorist and writer on music. From 1749 he lived mainly in Berlin, where he began a music weekly, Der critische Musicus an der Spree. This was followed by other critical and theoretical writings, including a notable preface to the second edition of Bach's Kunst der Fuge, treatises on subjects including fugue, thorough-bass, and keyboard playing.

In Paris as secretary to General Bodenburg about 1746 he met, among others, Voltaire and Rameau, and was influenced by the latter's theories. He also composed some songs and keyboard music.