“A violinist in a class of his own”– The Times
We’re opening the season with one of Canada’s – and indeed the world’s – most admired solo violinists. Brandon-born, Grammy award winning violinist James Ehnes comes to Sechelt as part of his 50th birthday celebration tour.
Gifted with a rare combination of stunning virtuosity, serene lyricism and an unfaltering musicality, Ehnes is a favourite guest at the world’s most celebrated concert halls and a regular soloist with some of the greatest orchestras, including the Royal Concertgebouw, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony. A devoted chamber musician, Ehnes is the Artistic Director of the Seattle Chamber Music Society and the leader of the Ehnes Quartet. As a recitalist, he performs regularly at Wigmore Hall, Carnegie Hall, Symphony Center Chicago, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Verbier Festival, Dresden Music Festival and Festival de Pâques in Aix.
For this special event, James joins his regular piano collaborator Andrew Armstrong for a fabulous program that includes a brand new work by Carmen Braden, co-commissioned by the CRS.
Learn more: James Ehnes
“…dazzling clarity and confidence” – American Record Guide
Praised by critics for his passionate expression and dazzling technique, pianist Andrew Armstrong has delighted audiences across the globe. Andrew’s orchestral engagements have encompassed a vast repertoire of more than 60 concertos and he has appeared in solo recitals and in chamber music concerts and at chamber music festivals around the world.
In Fall 2025, Andrew launched his first music festival in Tuscany, Italy. He also directs and hosts six thriving chamber music series in the United States.
Together, James Ehnes and Andrew Armstrong have released several award-winning recordings, including the complete Beethoven Violin Sonatas and the complete works of Béla Bartók for violin and piano. They will be releasing another album later this season devoted to Brahms’ Complete Violin Sonatas.
Learn more: Andrew Armstrong
PROGRAM
Christian Sinding – Suite 0p. 11
Brahms – Sonata op. 108
Béla Bartók – Rhapsody no. 1
Carmen Braden – New work – CRS co-commission
