J.S. Bach: Concerto No. 2;  Max Bruch: Scottish Fantasy  James Ehnes, Violin  Orchestre symphonique de Montreal  Mario Bernardi, conductor  CBC SMCD 5222

The late Romantic German composer Max Bruch is primarily known for his nine pleasant yet challenging works for violin, including three concertos and the Scottish Fantasy for violin and orchestra. The Canadian violin sensation James Ehnes tackles the Fantasy and the second concerto in his second Bruch recording with the OSM for CBC Records, this time under guest conductor Mario Bernardi.

As with earlier discs of Bach, Paganini, Debussy and Ravel, Ehnes’ remarkable technique and musicality make the recording a delight to listen to from start to finish. Especially impressive is the sense of subtlety that Ehnes brings to Bruch’s rather bombastic use of traditional Scottish tunes in the Fantasy. Ehnes seems to find and emphasize the lyrical side of this piece, while the pyrotechnics are glossed over and played down. In short, Ehnes doesn’t fall into the trap of making it sound even more difficult than it is. His priority is clearly the direct communication of musical ideas. One wishes he had more to work with in terms of the music.

Now that this 27-year-old marvel has put a lot of the warhorses of the violin repertoire on record, we eagerly await his tackling of more challenging fare.

Larry Beckwith

Editor’s Note: This recording is nominated for JUNO in the category: “Classical Album of the Year, Large Ensemble or Soloist(s) with Large Ensemble Accompaniment”.

Concert Note: James Ehnes performs with the Quebec Symphony Orchestra at Roy Thomson Hall on April 9.