Christian Tetzlaff is considered to be one of the world’s leading international violinists, and has been given the highest praise for his previous recordings on the Ondine label. Recent highlights include Tetzlaff’s recording of Mozart violin sonatas – BBC Music Magazine Chamber Choice – and Schumann’s violin sonatas – Gramophone Disc of the Month.

The first violin concerto was written during a wave of Anti-Semitism in Soviet Union and was premiered after Stalin’s death. The second violin concerto is a grand example of Shostakovich’s late period and includes several quotes from his earlier works.

John Storgårds began his career as a violinist and is today one of the most prominent Finnish conductors of his generation, particularly well known for his innovative and pioneering programs as Chief Conductor of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra.