Hummel: At the Opera

Dive into the enchanting world of Johann Nepomuk Hummel with "At the Opera," a captivating collection of operatic arrangements for solo piano. Released in 2011 on the Naxos label, this album showcases Hummel's remarkable musical imagination and virtuosity, reflecting the transitional period from the Classical to the Romantic era.

Hummel, a child prodigy who studied under Mozart and succeeded Haydn at Eisenstadt, brings his unique perspective to a variety of operatic themes. The album features variations on themes from Mozart's "Die Entführung aus dem Serail," Gluck's "Armide," and Cherubini's "Les deux journées," among others. Each piece is a testament to Hummel's compositional prowess and his ability to transform familiar operatic melodies into intricate and engaging piano works.

The album also includes a potpourri from Hummel's own opera "Die Eselshaut," offering a glimpse into his operatic style. Pianist Madoka Inui delivers a stunning performance, bringing Hummel's compositions to life with technical brilliance and expressive depth.

With a duration of approximately 75 minutes, "At the Opera" is a delightful journey through Hummel's operatic arrangements, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful piano music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.