Posted

May 13th 2007

Music

Joshua Bell performing Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/04/04/AR2007040401721.html

I've heard about this for a long time, but this is the first time I actually took time to read the full story and watch the videos.

I don't know if any of you are familiar with Joshua Bell. He's one of the best violinists in the world (and he's quite a hottie for a 40 year old!!!) And he volunteers to stand at the streets of Washington DC, plays very professionally and beautifully such difficult and famous classical pieces, and watches over a thousand people walk by, not even looking at him. Only a few stopped to listen, and only a few stopped and gave him money. (some only gave pennies...)

It makes me wonder, do people not appreciate classical music anymore, or is their time and money too precious to them to care that a virtuoso of musicians is giving them a free concert?

Pretty sad...

Edit: If you scroll down enough, you'll see other videos. (One is a fast-forwarded version of him playing for the hour. At least there's one lady who appreciated him...)