Franck dedicated his violin sonata, one of the greatest in the canon, to his younger friend, the violinist-composer Ysaÿe, presenting him with it on the morning of his wedding. With its big-boned, romantic mood and rich vein of melody, the sonata almost – but not quite – plays itself. James Ehnes’s rich, weighty tone and sharp musical intelligence suit the work ideally. He releases all the energy and wistfulness, while never imposing himself. Richard Strauss’s youthful Sonata in E flat Op 18 lacks Franck’s invention, but generously and passionately exploits the instrument’s qualities. Strauss’s Allegretto in E and songs, including Morgen! – tenderly rendered – complete the album. Andrew Armstrong, piano, matches Ehnes in vitality and sensitivity, which is all you can ask.
