Empfindsamer

Empfindsamer is a German term that translates to "sensitive" or "affected" in English. It is primarily associated with a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in Germany during the early 18th century, roughly between 1720 and 1770. The term describes a style characterized by emotional expressiveness, nuanced dynamics, and a focus on conveying deep personal feelings through music and art.

In the context of music, Empfindsamer style is especially linked to the Baroque and early Classical periods. It emphasizes sudden shifts in mood, expressive melodies, and subtle variations in tone to evoke emotional responses from listeners. This style was often contrasted with the more formal and restrained approaches of earlier musical periods.

The Empfindsamer style is closely associated with the composer Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, a son of Johann Sebastian Bach. Emanuel Bach's works exemplify this aesthetic through their expressive melodies, dynamic contrasts, and introspective qualities. Other composers such as Johann Christian Bach and C.P.E. Bach's contemporaries contributed to the development and popularity of this style.

Beyond music, the term also reflects broader cultural values of the time, emphasizing emotional depth and sensitivity in aesthetic expression. The Empfindsamer style influenced subsequent artistic movements, contributing to the development of Sturm und Drang and Romanticism.

Overall, Empfindsamer represents a period and style dedicated to exploring and expressing genuine emotional experiences, leaving a lasting impact on Western artistic traditions.