Beethoven: Grand Symphonies, Vol. 1
arr. Hummel for flute, violin, cello and piano
Uwe Grodd (flute), Gould Piano Trio
While Hummel’s chamber-scale arrangements of Beethoven could never march the original for oomph, they are deftly crafted. Elegant performances like these help their cause.
Beethoven: Grand Symphonies, Vol. 1
arr. Hummel for flute, violin, cello and piano
Uwe Grodd (flute), Gould Piano Trio
Purchase product
While Hummel’s chamber-scale arrangements of Beethoven could never march the original for oomph, they are deftly crafted. Elegant performances like these help their cause.
About
Beethoven and Hummel's relationship was one of fractious beginnings, but ultimately true friendship. Between 1825 and 1835 Hummel arranged his contemporarys Symphonies Nos. 17 and Septet, Op. 20 for his favoured combination of pianoforte, flute, violin and violoncello. Beethoven would surely not have objected arrangements were, after all, a perfectly normal part of the 19th-century musical landscape. To audiences today his symphonies need little introduction but, thanks to the musical sensitivity and sheer brilliance of Hummels arrangements, it is possible to experience the thrill of hearing these extraordinary pieces afresh.
Contents and tracklist
Awards and reviews
March 2020
While Hummel’s chamber-scale arrangements of Beethoven could never march the original for oomph, they are deftly crafted. Elegant performances like these help their cause.
May/June 2020
This ensemble has been playing together for 25 years ... but the polished and spirited performances on this CD would tell you as much. There is not a single moment of dullness or indecision to be heard here. Flutist Uwe Grodd plays brightly, cleanly, and in period style
