London Mozart Players, Howard Shelley - Hummel: Piano Concerto in C major, Rondos (2004)

A 2004 Chandos release, this recording of Johann Nepomuk Hummel's Piano Concerto in C major, Op. 34, and two concertante works is a charming exploration of early nineteenth century music at the crossroads of Classicism and Romanticism. Dating from 1809, Hummel's Concerto was contemporary with Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, "Emperor," and bears some comparison with that work in terms of its expansive length, heroic piano part, and martial atmosphere, attributable to Napoleon's occupation of Vienna that year. Yet Hummel also hearkens back to Mozart for inspiration, and this work may remind listeners of Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 13 in C major, and even the "Jupiter" Symphony, in its dotted rhythms, fanfarish melodies, and grand orchestration, which includes prominent parts for trumpets and tympani. The Rondo brillant in A major, Op. 56, and the Rondo brillant in B flat major, Op. 98, dating from 1814 and 1824, respectively, are decidedly Romantic in spirit and anticipate the rounder, expressive piano style of Mendelssohn and Chopin. Howard Shelley conducts the London Mozart Players from the piano with steady control of the ensemble and admirable precision in his own virtuosic part. Chandos provides a full and resonant sound, and audiophiles will appreciate the high resolution recording.