J. P. E. Hartmann: Piano Works, Vol. 4

Featuring

Thomas Trondhjem
Johann Peter Emil Hartmann

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Critical Reception

Robert Schumann, a respected composer and critic, praised Hartmann's 'Priis-Sonate,' noting its 'sharp disposition' and 'beautiful flow of ideas.'

Performer Biography

Thomas Trondhjem, the pianist on this album, has received numerous awards, including two Danish Music Awards (Grammys) in 2002 and 2003 for his recordings.

Composer Biography

Hartmann came from a musical dynasty; his paternal grandfather, Johann Hartmann, came to Copenhagen from Germany in 1766 and became a violinist in The Royal Danish Orchestra.

Composition History

Hartmann's 'Priis-Sonate' (Prize Sonata) from 1841 won a shared second prize in a piano sonata competition, despite the composer not primarily seeing himself as a piano composer.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Hartmann's music often features an atmosphere known as 'The Nordic Tone,' characterized by seriousness, a slightly sombre mood, rhythmic divergence, and folk music elements.

Composer Biography

J.P.E. Hartmann, the composer, was born in the same year as Hans Christian Andersen and August Bournonville, Denmark's most famous ballet creator, both of whom became his friends and collaborators.

Recording & Production

This album was recorded in Spring 2022 in the Concert Hall at the Holstebro Music School and Music Academy in Denmark, using a Steinway Grand Piano Model D.