Sacred music for the Esterházy family (2010)

Johann Nepomuk Hummel, friend, rival in love and contemporary of Beethoven, pupil of Mozart, Haydn and Salieri, is best known today for his early concerto for trumpet (1803). He was however one of the greatest pianists of the early 19th century. In 1804 Hummel took over the position of concertmaster to Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy, Haydn's old position. Haydn had supported his one time pupil's candidacy. Hummel continued his teacher's work by composing 5 masses and shorter works for the princely family, and the his masses follow on directly from Haydn's last six great settings. Hummel's masses are impressive works, and can hold their own in the company of the masterpieces by Haydn, Schubert and later Bruckner. Hummel's skill with the orchestra is apparent at every turn and these works are brilliantly written for the choir, soloists and orchestra alike. (bron: Brilliant)