Christoph Schaffrath

Baroque Composer and Harpsichordist

Christoph Schaffrath (1709–1763) was a German composer and harpsichordist of the late Baroque and early Classical periods. He was born in Hohenstein, Saxony, and later moved to Berlin, where he became a prominent musician at the court of Frederick the Great. Schaffrath was known for his chamber music, which included sonatas for various instruments, symphonias, and concertos. His works are characterized by their melodic inventiveness and harmonic richness, reflecting the transition from the Baroque to the Classical style. Although not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, Schaffrath's contributions to the musical landscape of his time were significant, particularly in the realm of keyboard and chamber music. His compositions continue to be appreciated by classical music enthusiasts for their elegance and craftsmanship.