Superstar violinist James Ehnes has left quite the legacy around the world with all the listeners he’s moved with his music. A new piece of that legacy now resides in Brandon just behind the school where his musical talent flourished.
Ehnes himself was on hand today for the unveiling of James Ehnes Way, a section of 20th street south of Princess Avenue near Brandon University. He was joined by members of his family and the faculty, as well as members of Brandon’s City Council and Mayor Jeff Fawcett.
“It’s amazing, and a little overwhelming,” Ehnes said. “This is a corner I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked around. It’s a very important part of the city to me. I’m deeply honoured. What can I say? This is quite amazing.”
Image by Rob Mahon
A succession of remarks prior to the unveiling of the street name, including from Fawcett and Ward 4 Councilor Shaun Cameron, spoke of the inspiration Ehnes offered for young people in Brandon wanting to take their talents into the wider world. There’s now a permanent reminder of Ehnes’ accomplishments in that sense.
“I’m certainly not unique in that regard,” said Ehnes. “Brandon is well known as a small city with a lot of amazing exports. But it’s really touching. I feel very grateful for the upbringing I had here. I can’t imagine a better place to grow up to inspire you to be able to see the world and do anything you’d like.”
Tonight, Ehnes will play a concert in his hometown and the event sold out almost immediately. Faced with that reception from his longtime home, Ehnes said he felt humbled.
“It’s touching,” Ehnes. “I’m glad people haven’t forgotten about me. I like to remain connected here. It’s a place that’s always going to be important to me. Even as the years go by and I don’t have family here anymore, I feel like in a very real sense this will always be home.”
