Franz Schubert; Johann Nepomuk Hummel - Piano Quintets (Peter Donohoe; I Musicanti)

Information

Composer: Franz Schubert; Johann Nepomuk Hummel

• Hummel - Septet No. 2 in C Major, Op. 114 (Version for Piano Quintet)
• Schubert - Piano Quintet in A Major, Op. 114, D. 667 "Trout"

Peter Donohoe, piano

I Musicanti

    Zsolt-Tihamér Visontay, violin

    Robert Smissen, viola

    Richard Harwood, cello

    Leon Bosch, double bass

Date: 2025

Label: SOMM Recordings

_____________________

SOMM Recordings presents a unique program uniting two chamber works for the rare ensemble of piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass: Johann Nepomuk Hummel’s Military Quintet in C major and Franz Schubert’s beloved Trout Quintet in A major. Remarkably, this release marks the first-ever recording of Hummel’s Military Quintet, rediscovered by virtuoso double bassist and I Musicanti Artistic Director Leon Bosch, who performs alongside his ensemble. They are joined by distinguished pianist Peter Donohoe, Tchaikovsky Competition laureate, for performances that highlight both the brilliance of Hummel’s rediscovered score and the lyrical warmth of Schubert’s classic.

Peter Donohoe (b. 1953, Manchester) is acclaimed as one of today’s foremost pianists, admired for his versatility, musicianship, and commanding technique. Educated at Chetham’s, Leeds University, the Royal Northern College of Music, and in Paris with Olivier Messiaen and Yvonne Loriod, he has performed worldwide with leading orchestras including the Royal Concertgebouw, Leipzig Gewandhaus, Berlin Philharmonic, and major UK ensembles. His repertoire spans from Mozart and Scriabin to contemporary composers like James MacMillan. Donohoe is also a sought-after competition juror, serving at events such as the Tchaikovsky and Queen Elisabeth Competitions. His extensive discography includes Mozart, Haydn, Grieg, Brahms, and Busoni.

I Musicanti is a UK-based chamber ensemble directed by international double bass virtuoso Leon Bosch, who hand-picks its members from among the country’s most distinguished musicians. Known for its distinctive programming, the group focuses on rediscovering neglected masterpieces and overlooked works by both celebrated and forgotten composers. With flexible instrumentation, I Musicanti performs in varied formations, from small string ensembles to full chamber orchestras, such as in upcoming recordings of all 45 symphonies by Johannes Matthias Sperger. While many projects reflect Bosch’s artistic curiosity, the ensemble also supports members’ individual initiatives and collaborates with leading international performers.