While watching HBO's Joshua Bell: A YoungArts Masterclass, it is easy to see that it's all about the kids. The world-renowned violinist checks his ego at the door, focusing his efforts on Mendelssohn, Bach and his youthful ritornello, who clearly idolize their enthusiastic coach.
On Felix Mendelssohn's Octet in E-flat Major, Op. 20--a longtime favorite of Bell's--the group hones in. Studying his every move, the youths find an easy way to bridge the communication gap in practice, all the while keeping it intimate (sharing Shake Shack burgers even).
While he may not be Terence Fletcher (Whiplash), Bell extends a piece of himself to his YoungArts students, who are all exceptionally bright and well spoken.
Except I couldn't help but laugh when his talented pupil and violinist Kelly Talim said of the 100 Club, a venue in England that the octet performed, that has seen the likes of the Sex Pistols, Paul McCartney, Metallica and more, that "it was kind of terrifying how dirty it was."
For some reason, it made me think about how the barriers have been shattered for Joshua Bell, but one of the keenest lessons in becoming a great musician is coming up through these venues. While it may not be Carnegie Hall, places like CBGBs, or the 100 Store for that matter, are still iconic in their own right.
Until Tuesday, Classicalites, October 14 can't come soon enough.
For now, preview the trailer below.
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