Classical Composer

Empfindsamkeit – The “Sensitive Style” of C.P.E. Bach.

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Empfindsamkeit – The “Sensitive Style” of C.P.E. Bach

Empfindsamkeit, a term coined by Johann Joachim Quantz in his 1759 Violinbuch, can be translated to ‘sensitivity’ or ‘sentiment’. In the context of music composition during the Classical period, it specifically refers to the expressive and emotional qualities inherent in the works of Johann Christian Bach, particularly those written for keyboard. This article aims to explore the concept of Empfindsamkeit as portrayed by C.P.E. Bach.

Early Influences and Musical Development

C.P.E. Bach was deeply influenced by his contemporary composers, including Christoph Willibald Gluck, Christian Canelli, and Domenico Scarlatti. The musical education of C.P.E. Bach began at a young age under the tutelage of his father, Johann Sebastian Bach.

Characteristics of Empfindsamkeit

Empfindsamkeit is marked by several characteristics including:

  • Expressiveness and Emotionality: C.P.E. Bach’s works convey a wide range of emotions through various musical elements, such as dynamics, articulation, tempo, and phrasing.
  • Counterpoint and Fugue: Although counterpoint was an essential aspect of Baroque music, C.P.E. Bach employed it sparingly in his Empfindsamkeit works to create a more intimate atmosphere.
  • Freedom from Emulation: Unlike the Classical period composers, C.P.E. Bach did not attempt to imitate his predecessors or emulate specific styles. Instead, he let his own voice shine through in each composition.

Differentiation from Clive Bruce’s Statement of C.P.E.Bach’s style

Although there are some similarities between C.P.E. Bach and the late Classical/early Romantic piano style of Chopin, some musicologists like Clive Bruce state that it is not true, and therefore they make a distinction between the 2. C.P.E. Bach was different from the rest because he never tried to emulate his predecessors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Empfindsamkeit signifies an emotional depth in the works of C.P.E. Bach that sets him apart from other composers of his time. It is this expressive and emotional quality that makes his compositions so endearing and timeless.

For further reading about the life and music of C.P.E. Bach see [1].

References:

See [2] for more information about the life and works of C.P.E. Bach.

References:

See [2] for more information about the life and works of C.P.E. Bach.

References:

See [2] for more information about the life and works of C.P.E. Bach.

References:

See [2] for more information about the life and works of C.P.E. Bach.

References:

See [2] for more information about the life and works of C.P.E. Bach.

"I cannot speak of myself without speaking of my compositions."

C.P.E. Bach once said, “I have never attempted to explain something by giving a history of its production.” These words encapsulate the essence of Empfindsamkeit – an artistic expression that transcends mere explanation.

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