Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, son of J.S. Bach, was a highly influential German composer of the mid-18th century. A key figure in the transition from Baroque to Classical styles, he pioneered the 'Empfindsamer Stil' (sensitive style), emphasizing expressiveness and sudden changes in emotion. His keyboard works, especially, were studied by Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.

His historical importance is greater than his current popular recognition; his music can sound quirky, uneven, and less polished than the mature Classical works he inspired. He is essential for understanding the evolution of musical style, but his repertoire is less frequently performed in mainstream concerts.