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This site introduces unknown Emanuel Bach (C. P. E. Bach).
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bachʼs Basso Continuo
Asked ChatGPT4o: "Please provide examples of works by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach that use basso continuo."
Examples of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bachʼs use of basso continuo (Basso Continuo) can be found in his chamber music and early sacred works. Below are some specific examples:
Chamber Music Works
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Sonatas for Harpsichord and Basso Continuo
- Wq. 62 (H. 502–513): The "Sonatas for Harpsichord (or Fortepiano) and Basso Continuo" involve the harpsichord or early keyboard instruments accompanied by basso continuo instruments, typically the cello, viola da gamba, or lute.
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Trio Sonatas
- Wq. 145 (H. 567): The "Trio Sonata for Flute, Violin, and Basso Continuo" is a typical example of works utilizing basso continuo.
Sacred Works
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Magnificat (Wq. 215, H. 772)
- This is one of C. P. E. Bachʼs early significant sacred works where the basso continuo is incorporated into the orchestral texture.
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Passions
- In several of his Passions and cantatas, basso continuo is employed, aligning with Baroque musical traditions.
The Changing Role of Basso Continuo
As a composer transitioning from the late Baroque to the Classical period, C. P. E. Bach gradually reduced his use of basso continuo in his later works, moving toward more independent keyboard parts and orchestration. However, basso continuo is frequently present in his earlier compositions.
These works clearly reflect how Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach inherited Baroque styles while exploring new forms of musical expression.