This thesis examines the Johann Sebastian Bach repertoire included in the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB hereafter) examinations from 1916 until 1926, during William Laver’s period as Ormond Professor of Music at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (MCM) and Head of the AMEB. It analyses William Laver’s personal connection with the music of Bach, and how this influenced the Bach repertoire included in the AMEB examinations. To provide some context the thesis also examines the early history and the establishment of the AMEB, and performances of Bach by University of Melbourne students and staff in the Public Concerts during this period.