World-renowned violinist gives
flawless performance
by Laura Cain, editorial assistant
As he hobbled on to the stage, the theatre was completely
quiet and all that could be heard was the clank of his
crutches. It was hard to believe that this short man with a
pot belly who had been stricken with Polio is one of he
greatest violinists in the world.
World-renowned violinist
Itzhak Perlman was the guest artist at Lubbock Symphony
Orchestra’s concert on Feb 27. LSO was celebrating its 60th
Anniversary Signature Event and was fortunate to have
Perlman perform. Christian Knapp from Seattle, also a
special guest, conducted the concert.
Perlman was born in Israel in 1945. He attended the Academy
of Music in Tel Aviv. He later came to New York and soon was
thrust into the international arena. He then continued his
studies at the Juilliard School and won the prestigious
Leventritt Competition in 1964, which led to a worldwide
career.
Throughout his life, Perlman has performed all over the
world with orchestras, as a soloist, and as a conductor. He
has appeared on a wide array of shows such as the “Late Show
with David Letterman,” the “Tonight Show,” and “Sesame
Street,” as well as PBS specials.
Last year, he performed live on
the “78th Annual Academy Awards.” Perlman’s
recordings regularly appear on best-seller charts and have
earned him 15 Grammy Awards.
One of his accomplishments he is
most proud of is working with John Williams to put together
and perform the music for Steven Spielberg’s movie
“Schindler’s List.” He performed the theme from “Schindler’s
List” at the LSO concert. This particular piece seemed to
have a personal meaning, considering Perlman is Jewish.
Perlman also soloed in “Concerto
No. 1 in G minor” by Maz Bruch, accompanied by orchestra.
The LSO orchestra also performed “Carnival Overture” by
Antonin Dvorak, and “Pines of Rome” by Ottorino Respighi.
Perlman gives a unique and
amazing performance. He has to sit down to perform because
Polio has affected his legs severely. He can be seen
smiling and looking around at the orchestra as he plays.
Someone who had attended Perlman’s rehearsal earlier that
day said that the man had fat and stubby fingers.
It did not show in his
performance, for his music was absolutely flawless. He
sounded as if angels guided his fingers through each note.
Perlman has led an amazing life and has graced the world
with his music. Seeing him perform live is an
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. His performance will take
your breath away.
