The trumpet is the undisputed star of this disc, which combines rarities in the repertoire with some well-known trumpet concertos. The works are performed by Philippe Schartz, one of the most exciting trumpeters today. A winner of numerous prizes and awards, he has developed a highly successful career as an orchestral and chamber musician, as well as a soloist.

Roland Wiltgen wrote the Concerto for Trumpet and Strings 'Après la nuit…' for Philippe Schartz in 2010. Commissioned by the Solistes Européens, Luxembourg, the work was premiered by the ensemble under Christoph König at the 2011 Echternach International Festival in Luxembourg. In the words of Wiltgen himself, ‘the listener might imagine a sleeper dreaming of the following day… beginning calmly, then getting more and more hectic, before slowing down and preparing for another night of dreams’.

The exclusive Chandos artist Karen Geoghegan plays the solo bassoon part in Hindemith’s Concerto for Trumpet and Bassoon. The concerto showcases Hindemith’s expert knowledge of the character and capabilities of each instrument.

The Armenian composer Alexander Arutiunian is well-known to trumpeters for his Trumpet Concerto with large orchestra of 1950, which is recorded by Philippe Schartz on CHAN10562. The tuneful Elegy for Trumpet and Strings, recorded here, followed in 2000, commissioned by Thomas Stevens, the principal trumpeter of the Los Angeles Philharmonic until 1999, and Doc Severinson, legendary trumpeter and bandleader.