Producer and host Thijs Bonger continues his search through the life and works of Johann Nepomuk Hummel (1778-1837). Today Part XII.
On his search through the life and works of Johann Nepomuk Hummel (1778-1837) programme maker/host Thijs Bonger descended on the year 1811: a memorable year for Hummel. It came as no surprise: his dismissal as court bandmaster with prince Esterházy. He settled in Vienna as a freelancer and made his living teaching the piano, conducting, composing and performing as a refined and brilliant pianist. We can hear that extensively in a sonata for piano four hands and a rondo for piano and orchestra. He also wrote ballet music. ‘Sappho von Mitilene’ was danced by the sensational Maria Viganò (see image).
All works by Hummel:
1. selection from: 12 waltzes and coda.
London Mozart Players conducted by Howard Shelley
2. Sonata for piano in E flat Major for piano four hands op.51
Yaara Tal and Andreas Groethuysen, piano
3. Rondo brillant in A Major gr op.56
Howard Shelley, piano; London Mozart Players
4. selection from Ballet Suite ‘Sappho von Mitilene’ op.68
London Mozart Players conducted by Howard Shelley
