…a magisterial demonstration, not only of Mendelssohn as virtuoso, but also as lyricist of deeply emotional cast…

Kavakos offers a compelling, unsugary reading of the Concerto… There's plenty of fine detail, too, both in the solo part and the orchestra, but there's always a sense of it arising out of the music…. The Camerata's playing is an additional delight, creating an intimate rapport with the soloist. The trios are on a similar level, with Kavakos joined by two superb musicians.

As a violinist whose dazzling virtuosity is rooted in the deepest musicianship, Leonidas Kavakos has few equals when it comes to the concertos of the early 20th century

...as both soloist and conductor, Kavakos clearly generates a real rapport with the players. His account of one of the most hackneyed works in the violinist's repertoire achieves the near impossible of sounding fresh and original - there's an urgency and nervous energy about Kavakos's playing that's vividly communicated to the orchestra.

The quality fibre of this serious artist is immediately on show in his violin’s opening statement, with its finely spun tone and scrupulously enunciated rhythms. He keeps his interpretation fresh and personal as Mendelssohn leads him from turbulent passion through liquid song to the finale’s delicate sparkle. The orchestra is a good partner, too.