"Romantic Pieces" is a captivating journey through the world of classical chamber music, featuring the extraordinary talent of Canadian violinist James Ehnes. Released on December 6, 2005, under the Analekta label, this album spans a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Ehnes' virtuosity and deep musical sensitivity.
The album opens with works by Bedřich Smetana and Antonín Dvořák, including the enchanting "Romantic Pieces, Op. 75" for violin and piano, performed with pianist Eduard Laurel. These pieces highlight the lyrical and expressive qualities of the violin, with Ehnes' playing characterized by its warmth and technical brilliance.
The album also features works by other renowned composers, including Leoš Janáček, Johannes Brahms, and Ludwig van Beethoven. Each piece is performed with a level of artistry that underscores Ehnes' reputation as one of the leading violinists of his generation. The diverse repertoire, ranging from sonatas and dances to arias and fugues, offers a comprehensive exploration of the violin's expressive range.
With a duration of 1 hour and 59 minutes, "Romantic Pieces" is a substantial and rewarding listen, perfect for classical music enthusiasts and those looking to expand their musical horizons. The album's meticulous production and Ehnes' impeccable playing make it a standout in the genre of chamber music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable experience.
2004 Analekta
Tracks
From the Homeland, Two Pieces for Violin and Piano - Moderato (Smetana)James Ehnes
From the Homeland, Two Pieces for Violin and Piano - Andantino moderato e Allegro vivo (Smetana)James Ehnes
Romantic Pieces, Op.75, for Violin and Piano - Allegro moderato (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Romantic Pieces, Op.75, for Violin and Piano - Allegro maestoso (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Romantic Pieces, Op.75, for Violin and Piano - Allegro appassionato (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Romantic Pieces, Op.75, for Violin and Piano - Larghetto (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Sonatina in G major for Violin and Piano Op.100 B183 - Allegro risoluto (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Sonatina in G major for Violin and Piano Op.100 B183 - Larghetto-poco piu mosso-meno mosso, tempo I (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Sonatina in G major for Violin and Piano Op.100 B183 - Scherzo: molto vivace-trio (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Sonatina in G major for Violin and Piano Op.100 B183 - Finale: Allegro-molto tranquillo, tempo I (Dvorák)James Ehnes
Sonata for Violin and Piano - Con moto (Janácek)James Ehnes
Sonata for Violin and Piano - Ballada (con moto) (Janácek)James Ehnes
Sonata for Violin and Piano - Allegretto (Janácek)James Ehnes
Sonata for Violin and Piano - Adagio (Janácek)James Ehnes
Humoreska Op.101 No.8James Ehnes
Danse Macabre (Saint-Saëns)Angèle Dubeau
Prelude and Fugue in A Minor for Organ by J.S. Bach (Liszt)Alain Lefèvre
Aria «Se Un Di M'Adora la mir crudele» (Handel)Marie-Nicole Lemieux
Aria in E flat Major (Graupner)Geneviève Soly
Concerto for recorder, two violins, viola and continuo in F Major «Allegro» (Graupner)L'ensemble des Idèes heureuses
Sonata in A Major (Scarlatti)Luc Beauséjour
Suite No.3 in D Major «Air» (Bach)Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra
Cantata Ich Habe Genug «Aria» (Bach)Matthew White
Kyriale VIII ( De Angelis ) «Kyrie V»Chœr des moniales bénédictines de l'Abbaye Sainte-Marie des Deux-Montagnes
Liebesleid (Kreisler)James Ehnes
Sonata for Cello and Piano in F Major «Allegro Molto» (Brahms)Yegor Dyachkov
Piano Trio in E flat Major (Beethoven)The Gyphon Trio
Hungarian Dance No.1 G Minor (Brahms)Orchestre Symphonique De Québec