Song & Dance

The young Canadian violinist Jacques Forestier makes his recording debut alongside pianist Boris Kusnezow with Song & Dance, a compendium of violin works inspired by voice and movement. Following his victory in the 2024 Joseph Joachim International Violin Competition at just 19 years old, the album ranges from showpieces to transcriptions of songs and folk music, with each selection representing a composer that has played a meaningful part in his musical journey so far: from Brahms, Bach and Ysaÿe to Bartók, Wagner and Gershwin. Staying “close to home” with repertoire that resonates with him “on an emotional level” and showcases his affinity for variety across musical styles and expressive realms, Jacques Forestier demonstrates profound skill and musical sensitivity as he explores the multifaceted nature of his chosen instrument.