Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, born in Weimar in 1714 to Johann Sebastian Bach and Maria Barbara, attended the Thomasschule in Leipzig from the age of nine. Despite his musical talent, he initially chose to study law in Leipzig and Frankfurt. However, he declined an offer of a private tutoring position in order to work in the musical circle of the Prussian Crown Prince Frederick. During his thirty years there, he faced financial difficulties and interpersonal tensions. Bach regularly attended the evening chamber music performances conducted by Quantz and accompanied the king. The difficult relationship with Frederick presented Bach with musical challenges, and Quantz exerted a formative influence on Bach's flute concertos.
The D minor concerto was composed in 1747, followed by the works in A major (1753) and G major (1755). His flute compositions reflect his virtuosity. Particularly noteworthy are Bach's focus on ornamentation and the subtle elaboration of interpretative nuances. He emphasized the importance of expressiveness and emotionally charged performance in his works. His elaborate violin cadenzas and clearly structured flute parts are also striking. Studies have shown that flute and voice exhibit different chordal characteristics. Bach pursued a particularly expressive interpretation and valued skillful transitions between melodic style and surprising moments. He impressively conveyed his concept of musical passion, with the instrumental cadenzas lending the pieces a distinctive character.
For the recording, a historical flute with a lower pitch, corresponding to the style of Quantz, was used. In the harpsichord version of the D minor concerto, horn parts were discovered, which lent the work a dramatic effect. The assistance of the librarians with the manuscripts was invaluable for this production.