Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Composer

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach was a German composer and keyboardist, known for his expressive style that influenced the transition to the Classical era.

Born
March 8, 1714
Died
December 14, 1788
Quotes
7
Rank
#3799

About Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach — Life and Legacy

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, the second son of J.S. Bach, was a pivotal figure in the evolution of Western music. His contributions, particularly in the realm of keyboard music, showcased a profound understanding of emotion and expression. In his 'Essay on the True Art of Playing Keyboard Instruments', he articulated a vision of music that prioritized emotional depth over mere technical skill, a revolutionary idea at the time. This perspective is encapsulated in his belief that music should resonate with the listener's feelings, a sentiment that is evident in his works. C.P.E. Bach's innovative approach to composition, especially through the 'sensitive style', challenged the established norms of the Baroque period. He famously stated that 'the most expressive music is that which is played with feeling', highlighting his commitment to emotional authenticity. This focus on personal expression not only distinguished his music but also laid the groundwork for the Classical composers who followed, such as Haydn and Mozart. Today, Bach's quotes and philosophies continue to inspire musicians and composers, reminding them of the power of emotional connection in music. His legacy is not just in his compositions but in the way he reshaped the understanding of what music could convey, making him a lasting influence in the world of classical music.

Quote collection

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach quotes

7 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"According to my principles, every master has his true and certain value. Praise and criticism cannot change any of that. Only the work itself praises and criticizes the master, and therefore I leave to everyone his own value."

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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"A musician cannot move others unless he too is moved. He must of necessity feel all of the affects that he hopes to arouse in his audience, for the revealing of his own humour will stimulate a like humour in the listener."

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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"What comprises good performance? The ability through singing or playing to make the ear conscious of the true content and affect of a composition."

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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"I have assigned many of my father's basses to students, without endangering their lives. Also, they do no harm to the fingers."

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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"The new, though engaging at times, may often start as offensive to us. The latter is often proof of the worth of this, while in the long run it will receive more recognition, than some, of what we liked so much in the beginning."

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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Composer
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"Keyboardists whose chief asset is mere technique . . . more often than not astound us with their prowess without ever touching our sensibilities. They overwhelm our hearing without satisfying it and stun the mind without moving it."

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