Born in March 1681 was almost completely self-taught, becoming a composer much to his family's disapproval. His mother confiscated all his instruments. Telemann played, among other instruments, flute, oboe, double bass, and trombone. He had a profound influence on the musical development of some of Bach's children. He was also Carl Philipp Emmanuel Bach's godfather. Telemann pursued exclusive publication rights for his works, setting an important early precedent for the regarding of music as the intellectual property of the composer. Telemann's private life was always troubled. His first wife died only a few months after their marriage; his second - with whom he had nine children - had extra-marital affairs and built up a large gambling debt before leaving him. Telemann was saved from bankruptcy by friends. Telemann enjoyed gardening and cultivating rare plants, a popular Hamburg hobby which was also shared by Handel.