ONE is a classically-trained violin virtuoso, former child prodigy, scion of an illustrious orchestral family, and widely hailed as one of the finest musicians of his generation.

The other, a fast-living Afro-American rock guitarist, famed for his drug experimentation, searing improvised solos and tragically early death.

So what is Nigel Kennedy doing playing the music of Jimi Hendrix?

“What attracts me to Jimi Hendrix’s music is his amazingly open mind,” he says.

“This was reflected in many ways. He was always gracious and never insulting to anybody and this showed through in the music.”

On Monday, the multi-award-winning violinist arrives at the New Theatre, Oxford, to perform Hendrix at a special concert.

The show will be followed by a concert at the Royal Festival Hall, London, on Wednesday.

Still best-loved for his 1989 recording of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, whichsold more than three million copies, Kennedy has always been keen to experiment, collaborating with Stefan Grappelli, Kate Bush, Robert Plant, Paul McCartney and The Who.

However, it is the music of Hendrix which remains his greatest rock passion. “There were any number of influences that he could hear through the compositions,” he says. “These ranged from rock, blues and Celtic to trance and experimental styles,” he explains. “Maybe that’s why I find it so natural exploring his music, having been involved in so many similar styles myself.”

Previous forays into Jimi’s world include a cover of Fire in 1993 for a Hendrix tribute album and the 1999 release of The Kennedy Experience, based on violin improvisations of Hendrix classics.

The show, which will feature both acoustic and electric renditions, will see the maestro work with guitarist Doug Boyle (who is good enough to have stood in for Jimmy Page in a show with Robert Plant); guitar prodigy Julian Buschberger, 18; vibraphonist Orphy Robinson, and rhythm section Tomasz Kupiec and Adam Czerwinski of the Jarek Smietana band).

A fascinating performer, Kennedy is as recognisable for his love of punk-rock hairstyles, socialist views and penchant for casual wear or rock chic over the traditional evening wear of fellow musicians. An outspoken humanitarian, he angered Zionists after criticising Israel for practising “apartheid” at a performance by Palestinian musicians at the 2013 Proms.

The comments were cut by the BBC before footage was aired on TV, opening the corporation to charges of censorship.

Monday’s concert will include Hey Joe, Foxy Lady, Crosstown Traffic and, of course, Purple Haze.