Trumpet Concertos

Experience the virtuosity of Maurice André in this timeless collection of trumpet concertos, originally released in 1974. This album showcases André's unparalleled mastery of the trumpet, featuring a selection of concertos by some of the most celebrated composers in classical music. The tracklist includes works by Haydn, Hummel, Vivaldi, Telemann, Albinoni, and Torelli, each piece meticulously performed and remastered for optimal audio quality.

The album opens with the Trumpet Concerto in E Flat, followed by the Trumpet Concerto in D Major and the Trumpet Concerto in A Flat Major, each movement expertly executed to highlight André's technical prowess and expressive range. Recorded with the Academy of St. Martins in the Fields under the direction of Neville Marriner, this album captures the essence of André's artistry and his ability to bring these timeless pieces to life.

This 1974 recording marked a significant milestone in Maurice André's career, solidifying his status as an international superstar and virtuoso. The album's release was accompanied by rave reviews and international acclaim, making it a staple in the repertoire of classical trumpet enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Maurice André, born in 1933 in the mining town of Alès, France, was a virtuoso French trumpeter whose legacy continues to resonate in the classical music world. André's journey began humbly, working in the mines at the age of 14, but his passion for music, inspired by his amateur trumpeter father, led him to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique in Paris. There, he rapidly ascended, earning the Honorary First Prize for Horn in his first year and establishing himself as a formidable talent.

André is celebrated for his exceptional musicianship, blinding speed, and crystal-clear tones, particularly on the piccolo trumpet. He revolutionized the trumpet's role in classical music, much like Andrés Segovia did for the guitar, elevating it from its humble origins to the forefront of the classical repertoire. His innovative use of a specially made trumpet with four valves allowed him to explore the higher register with unparalleled mastery.

Throughout his career, André recorded and performed the great concertos of the trumpet repertoire, popularizing the piccolo trumpet and inspiring countless musicians. His influence extended beyond performance, as he also taught at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique in Paris, where he introduced the teaching of the piccolo trumpet and the Baroque repertoire on trumpet. André's impact on the world of classical trumpet is immeasurable, and his recordings continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.