Mendelssohn's E minor Violin Concerto is one of the composer's greatest works, and one of the most popular violin concertos in the repertoire. Making his first recording of the work, young violin firebrand James Ehnes, a regular visitor to these shores, is partnered by the legendary Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra. The unusual and satisfying coupling is the sublime Octet, written when Mendelssohn was just 16, is given a sparking and vivacious performance by James and his friends from the Seattle Chamber Music Society.