For release in October 1999, a brand new EMI album from one of the world's leading violinists. Presenting a unique collection of short, beautiful works, personally chosen by Nigel Kennedy, CLASSIC KENNEDY represents a range of styles and composers, from Bach and Handel to Massenet and Satie, alongside Joni Mitchell and kennedy himself. The album also contains arrangements of traditional melodies such as Scarborough Fair and Danny Boy.

This album not only features an exquisite programme specially arranged for violin and orchestra; it also demonstrates Kennedy's sensitivity as an artist, his staggering technique and sheer musicianship. Kennedy: "I wanted to make a recording of small, perfect works. The maxim quality over quantity is so right - a small piece of music can be a masterpiece. By joining these little pieces together, the idea is to share with the listener a journey of musical diversity, emotion and contrast. The violin has no pre-conceived sound; it is a very voice-like instrument with all kind of timbres. Some of these works are perfect for experimenting with sound, allowing the violin to express simple melodies beautifully."

Following a lengthy sabbatical, Kennedy returned to the international concert platform in April 1997, an event that made national front-page headlines. The Times declared, "Only one British violinist in my lifetime has produced anything as bold and exhilarating as that." The Daily Telegraph said, "Here was a reminder that Kennedy is a violinist in a million." Since then, Kennedy has been in constant demand on the international circuit, touring throughout the world, including a triumphantly received American tour, his first in over five years.

Classic Kennedy will be released in October. Kennedy will tour this repertoire internationally and will perform at London's Royal Festival Hall on 2 December 1999 with the English Chamber Orchestra.