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Best violinist since Rabin?

Scott68 | Columbus, Ohio United States | 08/13/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The first time I heard James Ehnes was his Bach and Paganini cd's and I though to myself... anyone who plays Bach and Paganini like that should be heard! When I heard his Bruch, it proved to me he is more than just a technician. This cd is no different: effortless technique, expressive vibrato, the ability to create drama, and it is clear to me the violin simply does what ever he wants it to do.



With the possible exception of Vadim Repin, James Ehnes is the best violinist to come along since Michael Rabin (Kogan Szeryng and Heifetz, of course, achieved this level of greatness before Rabin). And like Rabin, Mr. Ehnes also possesses the rare ability to play a virtuoso piece leaving you with your mouth wide open and then turn around and make it sing and cry with a lyrical piece that is exploding with emotion.



It is my opinion that his tone is improving, I seem to remember hearing that he has been working with the producers of his latest recordings in order to achieve a more abundant tone. His Dohnanyi recording that came out after this was improvement in tone to my ears. I have not heard the new Dvorak recording yet, I am wondering if that is yet another upgrade in tone? Im trying to imagine what it would sound like if Ehnes recorded the Brahms Concerto and having it produced by DG...



Nonetheless, it is my belief that before long, Mr. Ehnes will be a household name and when you hear him play you will understand why."