Bach: The Brandenburg Concertos: with James Ehnes

Music that has long inspired joy, awe, and wonder, J. S. Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos transform the NAC Orchestra musicians into a rotating cast of soloists. Canadian violinist James Ehnes, a Southam Hall favourite, performs double duty on this program—leading the orchestra and performing as a soloist!

In 1721, Johann Sebastian Bach compiled six of his favourite “concertos for several instruments” and mailed them to the Margrave of Brandenburg in the hopes of receiving a job at the city’s illustrious court. Although he didn’t secure the employment he desired, Bach’s bubbly works—known today as the Brandenburg Concertos—stand among history’s most cherished music, inspiring joy, awe, and wonder with every performance.

Violinist James Ehnes brings his “freshness, spontaneity, and tonal beauty” (Gramophone) to the Southam Hall stage, where he not only leads the NAC Orchestra, but also takes on the role of solo violin and viola throughout the evening. As you experience the NAC Orchestra’s intimate performance filled with musical conversations of every emotion—from quiet calm to dances of ecstatic joy—prepare to be delighted and amazed by Bach’s unbridled imagination.