OUT NOW | James Ehnes' New CD "Ysaÿe: Sonatas for Solo Violin, Op.27"

Released on Onyx Classics, the album comprises all six of Eugène Ysaÿe’s sonatas for solo violin

This CD was recorded from Ehnes' home during lockdown in 2020, as part of his “Recitals from Home” project. These concerts, which also involved Bach’s six sonatas and partitas, culminated in a six-episode series.

His producer felt Ehnes could achieve CD-quality sound from his home — and since the middle of the night was the quietest time, Ehnes would record between 12 to 4 in the morning. 

This was Ehnes’ first time recording Ysaÿe’s violin sonatas, a project he had thought about for many years. He recorded Bach’s solo violin sonatas and partitas in 2000, of which he is considering re-recording.

“The Bach 6 Sonatas and Partitas and the 6 Sonatas of Ysaÿe are, of course, two of the most important cornerstones in the solo violin repertoire, and I’ve felt tremendously lucky during this time of musical isolation to have this music in my life,” Ehnes said on his website.

“I would never have expected I’d end up recording them in my living room,” he added. “And being able to record the Ysaÿe Sonatas, pieces that have been dear to me for many years, for the first time, has been a joy.”

To purchase and listen to the album, click here.