Hummel, Haydn & Neruda: Trumpet Concertos

Dive into the world of classical brilliance with Romain Leleu's captivating album, "Hummel, Haydn & Neruda: Trumpet Concertos." Released on November 22, 2011, this exquisite collection features 17 tracks that span a duration of 1 hour and 27 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical mastery.

Romain Leleu, a virtuoso trumpeter, takes center stage alongside the Baltic Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Emmanuel Leducq-Barôme. The album showcases a stunning array of trumpet concertos, including works by Johann Nepomuk Hummel, Joseph Haydn, and Bohuslav Martinů (often referred to as Neruda in his youth). Each piece is performed with precision and passion, highlighting Leleu's exceptional talent and the orchestra's impeccable ensemble playing.

The album opens with Hummel's Trumpet Concerto in E Major, a work that sets the stage for the virtuosic displays to come. Haydn's Trumpet Concerto in E-Flat Major follows, featuring cadenzas composed by Leleu himself, adding a personal touch to the performance. The album also includes Martinů's Trumpet Concerto, a lesser-known but equally captivating work that showcases Leleu's versatility.

In addition to the concertos, the album features excerpts from other works, such as "Mélodie" from Gluck's "Orfeo ed Euridice" and "Hora Staccato" by Grigoras Dinicu, providing a delightful contrast to the main pieces. The album also includes multiple versions of Haydn's Trumpet Concerto, each featuring different cadenzas composed by renowned musicians Krzysztof Penderecki and Karlheinz Stockhausen, offering a unique perspective on the same work.

Recorded under the Aparté label, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of classical music and the timeless beauty of the trumpet. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Hummel, Haydn & Neruda: Trumpet Concertos" is sure to captivate and inspire.