Media Advisory - "Play-In" with James Ehnes and Young Violinists from Canada's Capital Region at Rideau Hall

OTTAWA, April 25, 2016 /CNW/ - Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston will host a "Play-In" with Canada's most internationally renowned violin virtuoso James Ehnes, O.C., to officially launch his 40^th birthday Canada-wide 2016 recital tour. He will be joined by some 100 young violinists from Canada's Capital Region at Rideau Hall on Wednesday, April 27, 2016, at 10 a.m.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our young musicians to meet and learn from Canada's own James Ehnes, who has conquered the world with his beautiful music," said His Excellency. "I can't wait to see the spark of joy and enthusiasm in the eyes of each young musician as they learn from their maestro. I commend Mr. Ehnes for his generous act. Not only is he giving back to his country, but at the same time, he is sharing his passion for music and inspiring youth to pursue their dreams."

Mr. Ehnes will lead the "Play-In," which will be comprised of eight pieces and will include youth ranging in age from 6 to 15 years old. Following the "Play-In", Mr. Ehnes will give a short solo performance, and then engage in a question-and-answer period with the young musicians.

About the James Ehnes@40: Canada 2016 Tour
To celebrate his 40^th birthday, Mr. Ehnes is organizing a national recital tour from April 28 to May 30 and from September 14 to November 5, 2016, during which he will visit each province and territory. The tour will feature performances in which Mr. Ehnes will be accompanied by acclaimed pianist Andrew Armstrong, and will include community events and masterclasses with young musicians to encourage their involvement in classical music. The tour will be launched in Ottawa with the "Play-In" event at Rideau Hall and with an opening concert the next day, presented by the Ottawa Chamber Music Society. For more information, visit www.jamesehnes.com.

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SOURCE Governor General of Canada

Media wishing to cover the event are asked to confirm their attendance in advance with the Rideau Hall Press Office. Media information: Marie-Ève Létourneau, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-0287, [email protected]; Megan Ross, 2016 James Ehnes@40, 613-327-3213, [email protected]; Moira Johnson, 2016 James Ehnes@40, 613-292-4775, [email protected]