Already playing the piano at the age of three, Hummel studied under Mozart for two years before making his debut at the age of nine. He toured Europe with his father, Josef Hummel, and then spent four years in England, where he studied under Clementi. Haydn was quite impressed with Hummel, who had become a virtuoso pianist. Hummel returned to Vienna and studied under Haydn, Albrechtsberger and Salieri. During this time he met fellow student Beethoven and the two became good friends. In 1804, Hummel was named Kapellmeister to Prince Esterhazy in Eisenstadt, a position he held for seven years. He then held similar positions at Stuttgart and Weimar, where he continued until his death. In 1828, he published A Complete Theoretical and Practical Course of Instruction on the Art of Playing the Piano Forte, which was immensely popular. Hummel's techniques impressed his student Czerny who would later impart his knowledge on Franz Liszt. Hummel's students included some of Europe's greatest composers, including Mendelssohn and Hiller. Hummel was a prolific composer and produced eight piano concertos, ten piano sonatas and numerous other pieces for piano, violin, cello, clarinet, etc. His works have seen a revival in recent years.
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