Rafael Mendez - Haydn Trumpet Concerto

In this second installment of the Rafael Mendez special entitled "The Trumpet," Mendez begins with discussing the origins of the trumpet and then plays an exceptional rendition of the third movement of the Haydn trumpet concerto.
For those of you familiar with this piece it will be a breath of fresh air to hear Mendez's version. This was the first piece written for the keyed trumpet, and Haydn wrote this concerto to really showcase this brand new instrument. Unlike other classical trumpet performances of this piece where the trumpet sounds like a part of the orchestra, Mendez electrifies the show by playing with such vigor and virtuosity. I think Mendez is doing Haydn a great favor by playing this piece not as part of an orchestra, but as a trumpet player. Haydn intended this to showcase the trumpet, and Mr. Mendez does just that.

[@billsr2630]

When I was in Junior High in Des Moines Iowa a local cocktail lounge owner (Johnny Critelli ) hired Raphael Mendez to play in his lounge for several evenings. Johnny's son was taking trumpet lessons at the time and his father thought that Mr. Mendez would inspire him. He also arranged for Raphael to play in the auditorium in our school (Washington Irving) for all the students to hear. He played for a full hour for all the students to hear and it was one of the musical highlights of my 80 year life. I listen to the youtube pieces every now and then just to remember just how great he was.

[@jesamani75]

Awesome sir.

[@jasmineschannel3865]

Lucky you!!!

[@ut07]

I feel the same bro. Awesome you got to see him perform

[@vinceturner3863]

Sounds brilliant! Such excellence you never forget. Thanks for sharing.

[@jacekr2655]

Nice story. Thank you

[@soulfire2588]

Does anyone else think he has an awesome voice or is it just me?

[@waynebritton1436]

What would you expect from Trumpet Jesus?

[@crocshock911]

I SO FREAKING WISH WE COULD HEAR HIM WITH TODAY'S RECORDING TECHNOLOGY!!!!!!!!! Seriously, he sounds this good with crappy recording technology, just imagine how amazing it REALLY sounded when he played!

[@Azishome]

I heard him in high school in band rehearsal. Our director, an oboist, believed that Mr. Mendez was suburb. To prove his point, he played two cuts from an old 331/3 record on one of the very first stereo systems manufactured. The system was so big that it was housed in a large cabinet on wheels. And our director was correct. In band practice, he received a standing ovation from our band even though he wasn't there.

[@raphaelblackton876]

***** He was amazing with the Appleton High Schoolband in about 1958 or so. fond memories

[@KisaVorobyaninovDesu]

sound technology of 20th century is the best

[@KisaVorobyaninovDesu]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pn_ElWCabc2CsJY

[@rogermetzger7335]

I've persuaded myself that wealth can be measured in many ways. I don't have much money but I got to hear Rafael Mendez play his trumpet in person in the 1950s. I will be forever grateful. That was only one of the several ways music has enriched my life. How can a person consider himself poor who can say that?

[@rwhdragonmaster]

I met Rafael Mendez in I think 1959 he gave a free concert to all the kids in the Pomona and Ontairo School districts who were learning to play Trumpet or just learning to play anything. He gave a lecture for about a hour and than he played and when he played you could here a pin drop when he stopped, everyone was blown away especially me! But also my friend Leonard Candeleria , If you are a horn player you know who Leonard is. Rafael was my Hero amongst other's like Harry James, Louis Armstrong , Doc Severinsen, Al Hurt, just to mention a few . But to have seen and shuck his hand was like meeting a rock star.

[@paulbaguio8215]

How old are you

[@johnpedicone7795]

The BEST ever.

[@user-vw3lm8rg9u]

What he say in the lecture?

[@Mrgop]

I have been listening to this legendary trumpet player for over 50 years, was fortunate to attend one of his concerts in 1974, and met him twice. I have listened to his recordings thousands of times and am always amazed. There will never be another Rafael Mendez.

[@EdWatts]

I met Mr. Mendez in 1973, when I was playing professionally. My instructor, too, was an acquaintance of his and arranged the introduction. Mr. Mendez told me then that he thought that Maurice Andre was the "best in the world" and that he [Mendez] would never develop an upper register as high and powerful as mine. I was flabbergasted! His technique was far better than mine, but he always had a compliment for everyone. I was, at the time playing and Olds Mendez, but soon changed to Benge.

[@SavagetheMaker]

He has the highest possible level of double tongue mastery

[@philaldecoa8891]

Yes..He is very awesome...I like how he use the Double and Triple Toungeing Technique....its very clear and very impressive..

[@raxiel1997]

for all you guys complaining about he using to much "vibrato" vibrato is a technique some trumpet players use to make music come alive and did it not ? that music piece was amazing and for does asking why so much vibrato its typically the way all hispanic music is to add lots of color

[@Sgt1face]

it's not a hispanic piece

[@danmorrill2035]

hudson roseberry it is not but he added an hispanic flair to it. wonderful.

[@justincouv]

Dan Morrill yes, it's baroque and i've hear hundreds of trumpeters play this song. But, never one like this. It has a particular hispanic influence to it. Interesting and his technical ability is without question.

[@oldman719]

Justin C Baroque? Try classical.

[@dellisj9127]

There are people who complain about the playing of Rafael Mendez? Seriously? This man was a HERO to any & all who strove to play. VIVA Rafael!

[@Funkopartner]

I can't get past the fact that my private teacher played 2 concerts with THIS guy.

[@TrentDan]

A Scruffy-Looking Nerf-Herder Thats great. I wish was honored with a chance play him.

[@etb76]

rafael is truly the best trumpet player we have ever had, they way he tongues, his breath control, absolutely perfect. Nobody but Rafael could play a violin solo on the trumpet so perfectly.

[@anthonydesantis8557]

Sorry? The Haydn is a trumpet concerto

[@Timlawca]

In 1967, Rafael Mendez came to my high school and taught the band for a couple of weeks. He demonstrated many of his techniques. It was awesome hearing him live and up close.

[@Meowianne]

The world was blessed when Mendez reached for the trumpet at the tender age of 5. One can only imagine if he has been able to grasp the Cello or Tuba. Rafael Mendez is a legend! Bravo! Bravo!

[@deadhood_66]

Rafael Mendez in my eyes is one of the best trumpet players ever if you have something stupid to say dont say it

[@Danny45635]

People criticize this performance most likely due to the sound quality. If he played this today, it would probably sound just as good as wynton.

[@MichaelTarske]

I have almost no doubt that it would sound better than Wynton, but that is also a matter of personal taste.

[@jamesroberts3642]

@@MichaelTarske I think people mostly criticize it because there isn't much for volume/dynamics--- He plays it all at ONE volume- Forte. Also, he plays all the notes in only one of two ways- Staccato or legato. He sounds great, but this is no way on par with the great classical players and is no way better than Wynton. I love Rafael, but it's not even close when comparing Haydn

[@jamesroberts3642]

Sure...He it would sound better with modern recording equipment, but "sound quality" is not why this performance is criticized. Not by a long shot.

[@adityatyagi4009]

This is the best performance of the Haydn I have ever heard: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpO3foF3qsaAhM0

[@bradspitt3896]

@@jamesroberts3642 Cara None is very dynamic, it's also very latin sounding and in no way indicative of his limits as a musician.

[@Augustinemelecio]

Best trumpet player ever. Period.

[@Mooseman327]

I agree. There have been many great trumpet players over the years and this is mostly a matter of taste, I know, but, everything considered, I prefer Mendez above all others.

[@jwbmusic9351]

Im a pretty good trumpet player, and even with crappy recording technology of that time, he sounds spectacular!! I wish I could go back in time to hear him, hes sooo good!!

[@ajwash3247]

He gets his skill from the mustache

[@the1stooge128]

It is a superb stache

[@snuklens]

@Juan Rivas very nice, insightful, and light-hearted comment 😸😸

[@luisacosta2890]

So then I just need a mustache

[@carlosoliver1887]

Lol all mexicans can carry that

[@AC-mg9fp]

I can’t grow a mustache and can’t play like 1% of what he plays… now it all makes sense!

[@SabraStiehl]

For years the top trumpet in the Olds line was the Rafael Mendez model, which only a few music stores had available, so I ended up playing the Super Olds model, which had a band behind the bell. That episode in my life ended almost 60 years ago.

[@ChaplinTheKid1921]

Rafael Mendez of Michoacán Mexico; world's best trumpeter for many years. Salute

[@oliver13942]

et maynard?al hirt?doc severinsen?cat anderson. la liste est longue!!!

[@JxT1957]

@@oliver13942 and herb alpert

[@oliver13942]

@@JxT1957 and harry James

[@DominusOminous]

Wonderful to find this Mendez treasure-trove. Masterful doesn't even come close to describing his artistry. THANKS!!

[@joseNiz]

Para mi es el único trompetatista 🎺 en el mundo que mejor tocaba la trompeta que en paz descanse D.Rafael Méndez 👏👏👏👏👏

[@musicmanucsj]

Maurice Andre

[@jbnskyline]

this is officialy the 100th time ive watched it and still have goosebumps

[@goldenhelix]

i havn't heard every trumpet player in the world, but if i ever do i suspect i won't hear another one this amazing.

[@leticiagalvezmendoza9015]

El era de mi lindo Jiquilpan, Michoacán, México. Al igual que mi padre que fue también músico.

[@franciscoguzman1743]

Gracias por el dato paisano,así deberían ser los que que emigran a los E .U hablar el ingles bien,tomar lo mejor de los gringos pero nunca olvidarse de sus origenes,no conocía este magnifico tropetista

[@gertnood]

With all the trumpet recordings I own and have listened to, I have never heard Mendez play this until now. Wow - he puts an element of playfulness into it that I have not heard any other player do. I'm generally pretty much "Haydn'ed out" but this was very enjoyable to hear (and see). Mendez "rocked" as they say these days!

[@chemoman1]

Triste, que los estadounidenses aprecian mas este talento que nosotros. No soy el fan más avido de este tipo de intrumentos (prefiero los instrumentos de cuerdas) pero este hombre fue y será recordado como un maestro y una leyenda de su instrumento. Bravo, Méndez.

[@clifflibed7687]

My mother introduced me through his album.. awesome and grateful we preserved his art..

[@jttrumpet55]

Awesome classic performance, especially on a B flat trumpet! Not like ever trumpet player today who use an E flat. Thanks for sharing. JT

[@drHERBINATOR]

People use Eb trumpets because it was written for Eb trumpet.

[@garywatson2964]

i was fortunate to have met and seen Rafael perform while I was in college. I still consider him to be a personal friend. There are many other great trumpet players, many also of my friends. but nobody else comes close to the expertise of the great Raphael Mendez.

[@ElMcMeen1a]

Love the cadenza and the ending!

[@rebel4587]

Truly Amazing trumpet player

[@juancarlossanchez7318]

Hay muchos y maravillosos trompetistas. Quién es el mejor del mundo? Escojan al que más les guste, pero Don Rafael, es el dios de la trompeta!!

[@57dogsbody]

That Single Tongue and the sheer JOY in this piece is incredible.Fabulous.

[@SuburbanPony]

One of my favourite pieces!! It reminds me of horses galloping over fields!!! He plays it so boldly, very brash and open sound!!! Lovely!!!

[@noelbeavers2692]

This man has been my hero since I first learned the cornet 51 tears ago. A unique artist, his tonguing technique has never been matched by any other player. I will enjoy listening to him play.

[@josenieblas5003]

Genial!! Tuve como maestro de música a Ivón Méndez, otro excelente trompetista, es posible tengan un parentesco. Precisamente, buscando al maestro, ya falleció, encontré a este genio.

[@joshuamarius]

Increible!

[@JesusTheWay.]

He is my grand uncle and not because I want to flaunt but he is know as the best trumpet player. He played in Pancho Villa's army at a very young age, before he left Mexico.

[@SirTrumpalot]

wow, this is a piece of HISTORY! Outstanding! Nobody plays this concerto like this today. That may be a good thing or not. However, his interpretation is among the old that we have so who can really argue. Regardless, his technique is flawless and his articulation is crispier that KFC. Truly it is out of this world! Sergei Nakariakov's articulation is today's closest equivalent that I know of; his is probably modeled after Mendez.

[@ZeroMelfice]

I love how he plays the ending. I have never heard anyone else even attempt to play the ending like he does!

[@baldbaby2000]

Love it. So accurate and precise.

[@rondar2]

what a clear sound... amazing

[@kinkykingkopa]

You never know what might happen next year, take me for example, I was third to last chair freshman year in high school, and the next year I was third chair overall, earning me a first part in the wind ensemble (the good band).

[@Jazzjm79]

Holy shit! I love this solo! I performed this in high school. Rafael is incredible on this, and all other, performances!

[@nutechlures6130]

i still consider mendez as the greatest to ever play the trumpet.

[@johnsurs22]

+felicien schroeder They are both great. Mendez's style was better for Mexican trumpet, commercial music, and unimaginable technical ability (read: Moto Perpetuo). André was THE standard for classical soloists.

[@armandogiordano1226]

+Dr. Logos totally agree

[@MarioSilva-jg5nh]

Rafael is amazingly musical and has a ton of personality. It's not a contest. You are holding yourself back thinking the way you do.

[@MarioSilva-jg5nh]

I also guarantee Andre was a fan of Rafael as were all the other great trumpeters

[@johnpedicone7795]

Mendez was the greatest trumpet player who ever walked on this planet. I wonder how that must have felt.

[@justincouv]

the end part of this concerto (the solo part) requires an arpeggio completely up to the interpretation of the trumpeter. I've never heard one quite like this - it's technically very intricate and superb. For a great modern version of this song, look for alison balsam's version. Awesome video!

[@qwertyuiop13asdfghjk]

hechale ganas rafa! amazing video! thanks for sharing : ]

[@IIIIIIIIIIllllllllll]

This interpretation really, as said in the information box, really showcases the trumpet.

[@luisacosta2890]

I want to be like this guy it's so inspiring Rafael is awesome and the double lounging is perfect

[@johnholt5572]

The absolute best at double and triple tonguing one will ever hear!

[@57dogsbody]

I love the way he soooo discretely empties his spit valves very smooth.

[@evercusion1]

Grande, Maestro Méndez!!!

[@castrewq]

his tone and pitch are just incredible

[@johnpedicone7795]

The BEST ever.

[@freddyramirez5523]

Mis respetos para el maestro Rafael Méndez,,,,

[@fabriciosantos480]

BRAVO!!!!👏👏👏

[@BeeMichael]

Who knows how it was intended to be played; I do know this is honest playing with a ton of verve and energy, a trait not always found in performances today. On the tone, it's hard to say; you can tell from the recorded sound of the orchestra that this is not the ultimate in hi or any fi by today's or even those of the day's standards. (maybe it could be remastered digitally) So, lets just be glad that pioneers of trumpet soloing like Mendez have paved the way for the hot-shots of today

[@oldtimedrumcorps]

Really enjoyed this vid, Mr. Mendez never fails to amaze. The sound is bright though and listening , I also hear the brightness of the orchestra which is possibly acoustics and recording process. This performance is alive and it excites. I think Hayden wanted to showcase this improved instrument. R. Mendez does exactly that in his opening history lesson then performance. Education very well presented.

[@paulostroff99]

awesome!

[@robertsanderson6995]

AWESOME!!

[@barsorrro]

Wonderful -- this recording has allowed me to make a nice ringtone: I was looking for one where the trumpet would be really loud and stand well on top of the orchestral background of the piece :) I love the Haydn's Trumpet Concerto!

[@donaldduke2233]

One of the greatest trumpeters who ever lived !

[@AdamMeckler]

HA! Thats so sweet. His tonging is so clean! That cadenza is pretty sick too.

[@goodgal16]

amazing!

[@J___L_]

FANTABULOUS

[@perikoguevara789]

any one who says that hes not good is out of their mind!!! damn this guy is freaking good!!!! ORGULLOSAMENTE MEXICANO!!! Already know!!

[@nolahlms]

AMAZING

[@narutoanimefan300]

He was awesome in the end!!!

[@trumpetman309]

I like how he dances with his instrument a he plays. Really shows the personality and nature of the piece.

[@brloonbeats]

The awkward moment when you can actually hear the flutes playing in a piece

[@ocisneros]

Ay! ayayayayyyyyyyy, ¡Qué buen señor!

[@deevo117]

That cadenza near the end is unbelievable...

[@Jokervision744]

Instrument of victory gets to shine in it's brightest colors.

[@jamescherney5874]

One of my teachers, Larry Skinner, 1 st trumpet of US Navy band and USNA band went to Mendez for a lesson as a child. Mendez had him play something and kept telling him to play it faster and faster. Larry said that why he came to him to learn to play faster. Mendez just kept telling at him to play faster. He went out of the lesson in tears and hated Mendez from then on.

[@0lfo]

love it

[@Joeythatoneguy]

Why so many negative comments? She actually is a great player... I'm not saying anyone is better than the other but what i like about Mendez is that he knows the history of the trumpet and if you want to be great you need to know that. Any person can get some sort of sound out of a trumpet but only the greats know it inside and out!

[@lmorales767]

¡Excelente! Ejecución de la Trompeta.

[@barteklala]

Short but great Cadenza... Amazing...

[@johnsurs22]

I agree, spot on.

[@DblOSmith]

God, I remember a HS trumpeteer playing this... 10 years ago. Nowhere near 1/4 this good. Wow.

[@ThatCubeGuy]

i love what he did at the end

[@keithwilson1702]

Mendez is so mesmerizing that the conductor is looking at him at 7:24, and not the orchestra. What a spectacular ending.

[@kdods22402]

Mendez is one of the greatest trumpet players of all time, and for a very specific reason. He did not start his career by going to school to learn. He literally grew up with a trumpet in his hands every day and he played every single day. When all you really have to do to pass the time is play trumpet? Why do you take a guess to how he is so amazing ;-)

[@toolbiscuit6883]

WOW that's amazing how fast he could play

[@zaokoyechatma]

he will be remembered

[@robertobarnard3230]

Jiquilpan, Michoacán, México...

[@hebertoalcazar9790]

¡Genial músico!

[@tonycore2010]

excelente trompetista demuestra que todas las personas pueden superarse a si mismo y que no se deben rendir con nada, grande (Y)

[@CarlosFloresFotografia]

Un Orgullo para Nosotros los Jiquilpenses, que lo recordamos en su 107 aniversario, Rafael Mendez vivira mientras lo recordemos.

[@MarthalieThurstonSachemPiper]

Bravo

[@OniMurasame]

It's the same music from years and years ago... but so differently interpreted over the years... magic indeed.

[@TheFugatto]

Как он чётко и чисто проигрывает все мелкие длительности !!! БРАВО !!!

[@freshlyfickled]

exceptional!

[@ryanregala948]

This guy was a legend

[@cocolateaxe]

Mendez IS the history of the trumpet.

[@miamicelebrations]

He was a very well educated musician let's say. There are excellent trumpet players today but Mendez had a great knowledge and all my respects for him and his family. Saludos

[@peteratkinson922]

He looks so effortless.

[@WELLBRAN]

not only was he the best player but a walking encyclopedia of music history.

[@pacman80500]

he along with afew others are probably the best in the world... it is people like these that has made the most impact in the musical world(others like mozart, bach)

[@nosedhornface3102]

I'm a a trumpet player and that was great