The case of Hummel is sadly typical of that of many early nineteenth-century composers. Accorded the greatest respect as composer and performer and showered with gifts and honors for most of his life, Hummel fell into near-oblivion soon after his death, his oeuvre largely neglected apart from representations in conservatory curricula. Happily, he and others like him are now beginning to enjoy the popularity they deserve. A most versatile composer, his output embraces all genres with the significant exception of the symphony -- unsurprising, perhaps, in view of Beethoven's ongoing contribution; compare Brahms's reticence in embarking on his own first essay in the form. - Program notes.