Now violinist takes time out for paternity leave

The hyperactive Andris Nelsons cracked a conductor precedent last November when he cancelled dates in Birmingham, where he is music director, to await the birth of his first child.

Now the violinist James Ehnes has posted on Facebook that he is withdrawing from concerts in Lisbon, Copenhagen, Canterbury and London for much the same reason:

‘I have received several emails of concern, and want to assure you all that I am in great health and spirits, and am only withdrawing for the happiest of reasons: the upcoming birth of my first child. Many thanks to all for your continued friendship and support as I embark on this new and very exciting part of my life!  James’.

Delighted to see the spread of this timely and progressive trend. Just one concern: Nelsons was replaced at the first of his Brum concerts by the aspirational violinist, Nikolai Znaider. Might Ehnes, perhaps, be replaced by a conductor?

(Lorin, are you free?)