Maurice André

Maurice André, born into a coal mining family in Alès, France, in 1933, rose to become one of the most celebrated trumpeters in classical music history. His journey began under the guidance of a family friend, leading him to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique in Paris, where he later became a professor. André was renowned for his exceptional musicianship, lightning-fast technique, and crystal-clear tones, particularly on a specially crafted trumpet with four valves designed for the higher register. He significantly contributed to the classical trumpet repertoire, popularizing the piccolo trumpet and inspiring numerous innovations in trumpet playing. Throughout his career, André performed and recorded many of the great concertos in the trumpet repertoire, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike.