The Young Yehudi Menuhin

Parnassus presents an essential collection of newly remastered recordings showcasing the early recording history of one of the greatest violinists of the 20th-century, Yehudi Menuhin (1916–1999).

At the heart of this collection lies Menuhin’s recording of Schumman’s “lost” Violin Concerto. Recorded in 1938 with the New York Philharmonic and conductor John Barbirolli, the emotional intensity young Menuhin brings to this rediscovered masterpiece remains unmatched.

The collection spans nearly two decades of Menuhin’s early career, from intimate 1936 sessions with sister Hephzibah performing Enescu’s Romanian Folk-Style Sonata No. 3, to his commanding 1951 interpretation of Vieuxtemps’ Fourth Concerto. These aren’t merely historical curiosities—they’re revelatory performances that defined violin artistry for generations.

Gene Gaudette and Paul Arden-Taylor’s restorations reveal every nuance of Menuhin’s legendary tone and technique emerges with stunning presence, making this collection indispensable for serious collectors and newcomers alike.

Robert Schumann: Violin Concerto in D Minor, WoO23
1 I. In kräftigem, nicht zu schnellem Tempo 12:23
2 II. Langsam 5:49
3 III. Lebhaft, doch nicht zu schnell 8:55
Philharmonic-Symphony Orchestra of New York
John Barbirolli, conductor

Johannes Brahms
4 Hungarian Dance in G Minor, WoO1 No. 1 2:50
5 Hungarian Dance in A Major, WoO1 No. 7 2:04
Marcel Gazelle, piano

George Enescu: Violin Sonata No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 25
6 I. Moderato malinconico 7:55
7 II. Andante sostenuto e misterioso 8:19
8 III. Allegro con brio, ma non troppo mosso 7:25
Hephzibah Menuhin, piano

Henri Vieuxtemps: Violin Concerto No. 4 in D minor
9 I. Andante – Moderato 6:49
A II. Adagio religioso 6:23
B III. Scherzo – Trio 4:16
C IV. Finale. Allegro 5:50
Philharmonia Orchestra
Walter Süsskind, conductor