"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."
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.
"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."
"What comprises good performance? The ability through singing or playing to make the ear conscious of the true content and affect of a composition."
"I have assigned many of my father's basses to students, without endangering their lives. Also, they do no harm to the fingers."
"A musician cannot move others unless he, too, is moved."
"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."
"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."