Hummel’s Piano Pieces: A curated selection of beloved masterpieces, well-known from recitals and competitions

Variations on a Theme from Gluck’s “Armide,” Op. 57Johann Nepomuk Hummel

Hummel: Variations on a Theme from Gluck’s Armide, Op. 57; piano. Takashi Hayashikawa (pf.)

One of the popular works by Hungarian composer Johann Nepomuk Hummel, Variations on a Theme from Gluck’s “Armide,” Op.

57.

Hummel studied piano with none other than Mozart and was on friendly terms with Beethoven, and this piece distills his unique musical refinement and dazzling virtuosity.

Across ten variations, a beautiful theme symbolizing a tragic love story unfolds in diverse ways at the crossroads between the Classical and Romantic styles.

Although it demands advanced performance technique, its expressive richness showcases the possibilities of piano music.

Piano Sonata No. 3 in F minor, Op. 20Johann Nepomuk Hummel

Johann Nepomuk Hummel – Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 20

Johann Nepomuk Hummel was an Austrian composer and pianist active from the late 18th to the early 19th century.

He developed close relationships with the great masters of his time, such as Mozart and Haydn, and served as a bridge between the Classical and Romantic eras.

Among his piano works, the Piano Sonata No.

3 in F minor, Op.

20, is particularly popular.

It features Hummel’s characteristic delicate, expressive melodies and brilliant ornamental passages that demand advanced technique.

With careful practice—such as refining performance-effective phrasing and varied touch—it becomes a piece through which you can fully express your emotions!

Piano Quintet, Op. 87Johann Nepomuk Hummel

Hummel / Piano Quintet, 1st Movement, Op. 87 [Sunday at Central Chamber Music Series]

The Hungarian-born composer Johann Nepomuk Hummel was an important figure who bridged the transition from the Classical to the Romantic era while deepening his ties with Mozart and Beethoven.

His Piano Quintet, Op.

87, is a captivating work that features a brilliant interplay between a virtuosic piano part and the strings.

While the piano dazzles with glittering passages, there are also gentle sections, all within an expressive four-movement structure.

The passionate final movement, in particular, anticipates the Romantic style and is immensely satisfying to hear.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor a masterpiece of piano and chamber music.

Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 85Johann Nepomuk Hummel

Dmitry Shishkin plays Hummel Concerto no. 2 Russian National Orchestra, Mikhail Pletnev

Johann Nepomuk Hummel was a bridging figure between the Classical and Romantic eras, closely associated with Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.

One of his representative piano concertos, the Piano Concerto No.

2, Op.

85, is an ambitious work that incorporates more Romantic expression.

Its virtuosic writing highlights the piano solo while maintaining an excellent balance with the orchestra.

Said to have influenced Chopin, this piece is packed with Hummel’s distinctive charm and is a noteworthy work.

It’s a piece that performers from beginner and intermediate levels to advanced players will surely want to try.

Sonatina for Flute and PianoJohann Nepomuk Hummel

Pierre Sancan – Sonatine for flute and piano (audio + sheet music)

Johann Nepomuk Hummel, the Hungarian virtuoso pianist and composer, left us the Sonatina for Flute and Piano—a work that vividly reflects his uniquely brilliant style, admired by Mozart and Haydn and shaped by his friendship with Beethoven.

While it follows the Classical tradition with its three-movement structure, the interplay between flute and piano and the luminous harmonies usher listeners into the sound world of early Romanticism.

Mozartian lyricism, Haydnesque wit in dialogue, and Beethoven-like weight and passion all coexist here.

Showcasing Hummel’s singular sensibility, this piece is recommended not only for flute students but for all classical music lovers who wish to revel in the elegance of the piano’s sonority.