Career
Although he was a composer in his own right, he is remembered more for his association with Johann Sebastian Bach. He was one of Bach"s last pupils and is known for his copies of Bach"s works. Penzel started at the Thomasschule, Leipzig in 1749 while Bach held the position of Thomaskantor.
Bach died the following year.
After Bach"s death, Penzel became a prefect at the school under Bach"s successor Johann Gottlob Harrer. The position involved him directing the boys choir (Thomanerchor) on occasion.
Harrer needed a deputy because he had health problems: he died in 1755 while taking the waters at Carlsbad. Penzel studied at Leipzig University.