Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
Versuch über die wahre Art das Clavier zu spielen (24) in 2 books, H. 868, Wq. 254
Works Info
Composer:Carl Philipp Emanuel BachGenre:KeyboardCompose Date:1753-1787Publication Date:1753-1787Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's 'Versuch über die wahre Art das Clavier zu spielen (24) in 2 books, H. 868, Wq. 254' is a seminal work in the history of keyboard music. Composed in 1753, it was first published in two volumes in 1753 and 1762 respectively. The work is a comprehensive treatise on keyboard playing, and it is considered one of the most important works of its kind. The 'Versuch' is divided into two books, each containing twelve sonatas. The first book is dedicated to the "true art" of playing the keyboard, while the second book focuses on the "proper performance" of keyboard music. The sonatas in the first book are written in a variety of keys and are intended to showcase the technical and expressive capabilities of the keyboard. The second book contains sonatas that are more focused on the interpretation of specific pieces of music. The 'Versuch' is notable for its innovative approach to keyboard playing. Bach's writing is characterized by a focus on the expressive potential of the keyboard, as well as a concern for the proper execution of ornamentation and other stylistic elements. The work also contains detailed instructions on fingering, touch, and other technical aspects of keyboard playing. The 'Versuch' was premiered in 1753, and it quickly became a popular and influential work. It was widely read and studied by keyboard players throughout Europe, and it had a significant impact on the development of keyboard music in the classical period. The work's influence can be seen in the music of composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Schumann, who all studied and admired Bach's writing. Overall, the 'Versuch über die wahre Art das Clavier zu spielen' is a landmark work in the history of keyboard music. Its innovative approach to keyboard playing and its focus on the expressive potential of the keyboard have made it a lasting and influential work that continues to be studied and admired by musicians and scholars today.More....