In its way, this is as fine a recording of
Elgar's Violin Concerto as has ever been made. As befits this intensely romantic work, its way is passionate, intimate, and persuasive. But, as befits the intensely reticent composer, it is also restrained, reserved, and objective. In other words, don't expect the emotional displays of violinists like
Menuhin,
Perlman, or
Zukerman in this performance by young Canadian violinist
James Ehnes. While his technique is immensely impressive -- there's nothing in this enormously difficult work he can't play with ease and assurance -- it is
Ehnes' interpretation that really makes his recording stand out. Like the composer who famously hid his emotions behind riddles and enigmas, and the work that manifestly wears its heart on its sleeve even as it holds back from complete surrender,
Ehnes does not reveal his heart in this performance but rather reveals the music's heart, letting
Elgar's artistry speak for itselfe. Accompanied by the seasoned
Andrew Davis leading the venerable
Philharmonia Orchestra,
Ehnes turns in a performance that, in its almost understated way, demands to be heard by anyone who loves the work. As a filler,
Davis and the
Philharmonia add a suave but very sentimental reading of
Elgar's Serenade for Strings. Recorded in part in performance and in part in rehearsals, Onyx's digital sound is a bit heavy and a tad distant, but still clear enough and quite lush.