James Ehnes, renowned for his technical brilliance and expressive depth, presents a captivating exploration of Baroque and early Classical masterpieces with his album "The Four Seasons: Vivaldi, Tartini, & Leclair." Released on October 2, 2015, under the Onyx Classics label, this album is a testament to Ehnes' virtuosity and his ability to breathe new life into timeless compositions.
The album spans a rich tapestry of chamber and orchestral works, showcasing the genius of Antonio Vivaldi, Giuseppe Tartini, and Jean-Marie Leclair. Ehnes' interpretation of Vivaldi's iconic "The Four Seasons" concertos is a highlight, offering a fresh perspective on these beloved works. The album also features Tartini's "Devil's Trill" Sonata, a piece known for its technical demanding and haunting beauty, and Leclair's Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3, a gem of the French Baroque repertoire.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, the album is a journey through the seasons and emotions, from the exuberant joy of "La primavera" to the introspective melancholy of "L'inverno." Ehnes' playing is marked by its clarity, precision, and emotional resonance, making this album a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Ehnes or discovering his artistry for the first time, this album offers a rewarding and enriching experience.
Violin Sonata in G Minor, "The Devil's Trill": I. LarghettoGiuseppe Tartini, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in G Minor, "The Devil's Trill": II. Allegro energico (arr. F. Kreisler)Giuseppe Tartini, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in G Minor, "The Devil's Trill": III. Grave - Allegro assai (arr. F. Kreisler)Giuseppe Tartini, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3: I. Un poco andanteJean-Marie Leclair, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3: II. AllegroJean-Marie Leclair, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3: III. Sarabanda: LargoJean-Marie Leclair, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Sonata in D Major, Op. 9, No. 3: IV. Tambourin: PrestoJean-Marie Leclair, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in E Major, RV 269, "La primavera": I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in E Major, RV 269, "La primavera": II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in E Major, RV 269, "La primavera": III. Danza pastoraleAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in G Minor, RV 315, "L'estate": I. Allegro non moltoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in G Minor, RV 315, "L'estate": II. Adagio e piano – Presto e forteAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in G Minor, RV 315, "L'estate": III. PrestoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Major, RV 293, "L'autumno": I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Major, RV 293, "L'autumno": II. Adagio moltoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Major, RV 293, "L'autumno": III. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Minor,RV 297, "L'inverno": I. Allegro non moltoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Minor,RV 297, "L'inverno": II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto in F Minor,RV 297, "L'inverno": III. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, James Ehnes, Andrew Armstrong, Sydney Symphony Orchestra