Johannes Brahms - The Three Violin Sonatas (Andrew Wan; Charles Richard-Hamelin)

Information

Composer: Johannes Brahms

• Violin Sonata No. 1 in G Major, Op. 78
• Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Major, Op. 100
• Violin Sonata No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 108

Andrew Wan, violin

Charles Richard-Hamelin, piano

Date: 2026

Label: Analekta

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In a masterful collaboration, Orchestre symphonique de Montréal Concertmaster Andrew Wan and internationally acclaimed pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin bring their exceptional artistic chemistry to Brahms' three violin sonatas. Together, they navigate a sweeping expressive arc that highlights the distinct character of each work: the intimate, tender lyricism of Op. 78, the radiant warmth of Op. 100, and the stormy, dramatic intensity of Op. 108. Their interpretations successfully balance profound emotional depth with rigorous architectural clarity and controlled intensity. Supported by a rich and resonant recorded sound, this landmark album stands as a noble, incandescent, and deeply compelling contribution to the Romantic chamber music discography.

Appointed Concertmaster of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal in 2008, violinist Andrew Wan enjoys an acclaimed international career as a soloist, educator, and chamber musician. A founding member of the New Orford String Quartet, he regularly collaborates with world-renowned artists and serves as guest concertmaster for major North American orchestras. His extensive, award-winning discography includes Juno and Félix awards, notably featuring a celebrated duo partnership with pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin. A Juilliard graduate, Wan is an Associate Professor at McGill University and performs on a historic 1744 Michel'Angelo Bergonzi violin with an 1860 Dominique Peccatte bow.

Recognized for his sensitive, elegant, and sophisticated technique, Canadian pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin rose to international prominence after winning the Silver Medal and the Krystian Zimerman Sonata Prize at the 2015 International Chopin Piano Competition. A frequent guest at prestigious global festivals, he performs as a soloist with world-class ensembles, including the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Warsaw Philharmonic, and Singapore Symphony Orchestra. His acclaimed discography on the Analekta label features ten albums, highlighted by a Juno Award-winning duo partnership and celebrated recordings of Mozart and Chopin concertos, securing his reputation as a premier interpreter of the Classical and Romantic repertoires.