Like his father, C.P.E. Bach transcribed his concertos for various solo instruments, adapting piano concertos for oboe, cello, and flute.
Composition History
C.P.E. Bach stated in his autobiography that his father, Johann Sebastian Bach, was his only composition teacher.
Composer Biography
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, son of Johann Sebastian Bach, was considered one of the greatest musicians of his time and bridged the Baroque and Classical eras.
Historical Context
C.P.E. Bach's flute concertos show influences from Johann Joachim Quantz, the court composer and flute teacher of King Frederick II, who published a popular theoretical treatise on flute playing.
Compositional Technique
C.P.E. Bach's concertos evolved from the traditional ritornello form to incorporate sonata form, making them precursors to Viennese Classical concertos.
Composer's Artistic Vision
C.P.E. Bach's music is particularly challenging in 'the art of expression,' requiring performers to feel the emotions they wish to convey to the audience.
