Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 / Octet in E flat major, Op. 20

"Ehnes's gorgeous, supple tone is combined with that instinct for a composer's distinctive character that makes his interpretations so compelling. Ashkenazy conducts with delicacy and strength...Ehnes's innate sensibility draws him into the music's milieu for a performance that is outstanding and unreservedly recommended." The Telegraph, 19th November 2010 *****

"(Ehnes's) new Mendelssohn disc is simply irresistible, putting a zestful concerto (with Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra) alongside a frolicsome ride through the composer's younger-than-springtime Octet."
(William Dart NZ Herald)

"Brisk tempi mark out James Ehnes's reading of Mendelssohn's perennial concerto; there is nothing cloying or sentimental, even in the luscious slow movement where lesser violinists are tempted to wallow. Instead, he gives a beautifully sincere, unaffected performance" The Observer, 21st November 2010

"The first thing that hits you about Ehnes's reading is the rhythmic propulsion of the concerto's outer movements, which lifts the music, revealing its glorious bone-structure...the sense is of a joyous, exhilarating ride rather than anything overly driven...Another aspect which is particularly winning is the creaminess of Ehnes's lower register...this is absolutely up there with the best of them." Editor's Choice Gramophone Magazine, February 2011

Mendelssohn's E minor violin concerto is one of the composer's greatest works, and one of the most popular violin concertos in the repertoire.

Making his first recording of the work, James Ehnes is partnered by Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia, recorded live.

The astonishingly precocious Octet, written when Mendelssohn was just 16, is given a sparking and vivacious performance by James and his friends from the Seattle Chamber Music Society.

His previous ONYX release of the Paganini 24 Caprices was universally praised by reviewers worldwide.