The Ballets of Hummel

Johann Nepomuk Hummel must first be known for his solo piano music and piano concertos.
Hummel's ability on the piano is renowned, and I can only surmise that we hear not only his technical capabilities, but his passion for the instrument through these works.

Chandos has put most of the concertos on record, but have been spending time adding to his orchestral contributions as well. They might not be well known, but they are affable works which lie on the Classical side of Hummel rather than the sproutings of the Romantic Era.

These ballets easily fit into that description too, although his solos for wind instruments are always an added attraction, even if they don't truly burst out into early-Romanticisms.

A review from 2024

Howard Shelley and Chandos are really reaching into the unknown with Hummel’s two ballet scores and a short set of waltzes. If you are in the mood for exploring and you enjoy late-Classical Era orchestral music, you should find much pleasure here.

Sappho really gets going about halfway through when Hummel affords the horn, clarinet, flute, and oboe with some wonderful solo work. The Magic Castle, on the other hand, is more dramatic with its incessant fanfares and jangly bells.

Both are rather light works, filled with Hummel’s penchant for perky tunes, and Classically-balanced harmonies. The addition of trumpets, trombones, and percussion gives this music some added colour.

Each of the Twelve Waltzes are not much longer than 20-40 seconds each.  I don’t know if I hear the ingrained Viennese within them, but the percussion gives them a little more oomph.

While Chandos’ Hummel series has been pleasingly sonically well-balanced in the piano concertos, this recording of his ballet music is over-resonant in its church location. Otherwise, the playing is quite fine, and the leadership from Howard Shelley is always inspired.

Not a first stop for Hummel, but lovers of Hummel and late-Classical Era music will find much to enjoy. 

 Listen on YouTube

Works
Sappho von Mitilene, op. 68 (46.48)
The Magic Castle (19.13)
Twelve Waltzes and Coda (9.38)

Ensemble
London Mozart Players
Howard Shelley, conductor

Label: Chandos
Year: 2007
Total Timing: 75.39

 

 

Ultimately, a journey of light Classical Era ballet music.

Hummel's musical geniality and his way with melody and orchestration are always a pleasure.

Find more Hummel recordings HERE!