James Ehnes extends Seattle Chamber Music Society contract

Seattle Chamber Music Society (SCMS) has announced that James Ehnes has signed a new eight-year contract. The Canadian violinist and violist will continue to serve as the Gilbert Omenn and Martha Darling artistic director through to 2032, having first been appointed to the position in 2012.

During his tenure Ehnes has overseen the launch of the society’s Center for Chamber Music, the development of the SCMS Virtual Concert Hall, and the establishment of chamber music academies for both students and adults. Ehnes’ time as artistic director has also seen the society’s yearly concert activity more than double.’

SCMS executive director John Holloway said: ‘As one of the most celebrated musicians of his generation, James Ehnes’s choice to dedicate such a significant part of his career to chamber music is a major win for this art form and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of our cities. I believe chamber music will be the cornerstone of classical music in American cities moving forward, and James’s decision only strengthens that vision.’

Founded in 1982, SCMS presents a Winter Festival in January and a Summer Festival in July at the Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall, as well as offering year-round lineup including its new Signature Series, Crescendo Concerts and Concerts at the Center for Chamber Music. SCMS’s 2025 Winter Festival starts this week (24 January – 2 February), presenting works from 1850-1950 by 18 different composers.

Ehnes said: ‘Seattle Chamber Music Society is truly my artistic home and I am honored to continue our work together. There has been no greater pleasure in my career than having this opportunity to present the greatest music with the greatest artists for our wonderful audiences in Seattle and beyond.’