Experience the breathtaking virtuosity of Alison Balsom in this captivating collection of trumpet concertos, released on September 1, 2008, by Warner Classics. This album showcases Balsom's stunning performances of works by Haydn, Hummel, Torelli, and Neruda, each piece a testament to her dynamic playing and the orchestra's vibrant, naturally balanced accompaniment.
The album opens with Hummel's Trumpet Concerto in E-Flat Major, a piece that highlights Balsom's technical prowess and expressive range. The concerto's lively Allegro con spirito, serene Andante, and spirited Rondo are followed by Haydn's Trumpet Concerto in E-Flat Major, composed specifically for the keyed trumpet, an innovation of the time that offered a softer, more nuanced timbre.
Torelli's Trumpet Concerto in D Major adds a Baroque charm to the collection, with its lively Allegro and playful Adagio-Presto-Allegro movements. The album concludes with Neruda's Trumpet Concerto in E-Flat Major, a piece that showcases Balsom's agility and control in its swift Vivace finale.
Each concerto on this album is a masterclass in trumpet playing, with Balsom's superb technique and musicality shining through in every note. The recording quality is pristine, ensuring that every detail of Balsom's performance and the orchestra's accompaniment is captured with clarity and depth. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave you spellbound by the power and beauty of the trumpet.