This site introduces unknown Emanuel Bach (C. P. E. Bach).
ChatGPT4o writes as follows (please note that it may not be accurate):
The symphony (sinfonia) of the 18th century evolved from the Baroque Italian overture (sinfonia) and grew into a central genre of Classical music. During this period, innovations in form and expression advanced, laying the foundation for symphonies of the 19th century and beyond.
The Italian opera overture (with a fast–slow–fast three-part structure), established by Alessandro Scarlatti during the Baroque era, served as the starting point for early 18th-century symphonies. Giovanni Battista Sammartini inherited this tradition and developed the symphony into an independent instrumental genre. His works, though short and simple, are characterized by clear melodies and distinct tonality, greatly influencing later symphonic composers.
In the mid-18th century, the Mannheim School played a crucial role in the evolution of the symphony. Led by Johann Stamitz, this school solidified the four-movement structure of the symphony (fast–slow–dance–fast) by adding a minuet as the third movement. They introduced dynamic techniques like the Mannheim crescendo and ornamental motifs such as the Mannheim rocket. These innovations enhanced the orchestraʼs expressive power, establishing the symphony as a central genre in public concerts.
Haydn, known as the "Father of the Symphony," refined the form and structure of the symphony, notably by developing the sonata form in the first movement, and composed numerous symphonies. His works are marked by humor, counterpoint, and drama, bringing the symphony to completion as a pure art form. Mozart further advanced Haydnʼs achievements, producing masterpieces such as the *Jupiter Symphony*. His symphonies are distinguished by their melodic beauty and emotional depth, reaching the pinnacle of Classical symphonic music.
Symphonies developed not only in Mannheim and Vienna but also in London and Paris. Johann Christian Bach composed sophisticated symphonies in London, significantly influencing Mozartʼs early works. In France, François-Joseph Gossec, often called the "Father of the French Symphony," played a prominent role in elevating the symphony to a central position in French music.
The 18th-century symphony solidified its position as a core genre of European music through the establishment of its form, the expansion of orchestral instrumentation, and its spread in public concerts. The innovations of composers like Sammartini, the Mannheim School, Haydn, and Mozart converged, paving the way for the Romantic music of the 19th century. The symphonies of this era symbolize a major transitional period in music history.