Forkel wrote his biography in 1802, more than 60 years after the events related, and its accuracy has been questioned. The lack of dedication on the title page also makes the tale of the commission unlikely. Goldberg's age at the time of publication (14 years) has also been cited as grounds for doubting Forkel's tale, although it must be said that he was known to be an accomplished keyboardist and sight-reader. contends that the Forkel story is entirely spurious.
Forkel wrote his biography in 1802 more than 60 years after the events related and its accuracy has been questioned The lack of dedication on the title page also makes the tale of the commission unlikely Goldberg's age at the time of publication (14 years) has also been cited as grounds for doubting Forkel's tale although it must be said that he was known to be an accomplished keyboardist and sight-reader contends that the Forkel story is entirely spurious