“He’s playing the Paganini Variations!”

I held my cell phone as close as possible, hoping Cindy could hear. When he finished, she begged, “Please, Mark, invite him again.” I handed him another home-cooked meal, wrapped in foil for warmth.

Every afternoon I came. Others strode by, deaf to the music. His ragged violin case held some silver, but little green. I added a fistful of bills, about what I had paid to hear Janine Jansen the night before.

“Beau Soir?”
“Debussy. Needs piano.”
“My wife plays. Please come to us.”

His first smile, but still a head shake.
“Tomorrow, then.”

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Linda Rock
Linda Rock(@linda-rock)
1 year ago

After reading your story, I listened to the music, Julie. I’ve always enjoyed listening to a violin being played but never before have I been so swept away. Absolutely exquisite. There is a sadness to your story. People unable to appreciate talent, walking by, in their own little world. I’m now left with the hope that Mark’s invitation will eventually be accepted, violin and piano will come together and friendships formed. Your… Read more »

Margarida Brei
Margarida Brei(@margarida-brei)
1 year ago

Glad that Mark enjoyed the music and was generous in his tips, Julie.

Lotchie Carmelo
Lotchie Carmelo(@lotchie-carmelo)
1 year ago

Hello, Julie. I really enjoyed listening to that music on youtube. Like Mark, I am also impressed. 

Lotchie Carmelo
Lotchie Carmelo(@lotchie-carmelo)
Reply to  Julie Harris
1 year ago

Yes. It is indeed beautiful. You’re most welcome.

Christer Norrlof
Christer Norrlof(@christer-norrlof)
1 year ago

You have managed to fit so much into this little story, Julie! There is, of course, the sad part which Linda points out that most people walk by without paying attention, but there is also the strange reality that this virtuous has to make his living in that way. But what do I know? Maybe he prefers the freedom of playing alone in the streets. From his refusal to accept Marc’s invitation,… Read more »

Christer Norrlof
Christer Norrlof(@christer-norrlof)
Reply to  Julie Harris
1 year ago

Of, course, Julie, you are right. I have heard about the excruciating competition that makes it very difficult even for very talented musicians to make it into good positions. When I read your wonderful story, my thoughts went to a movie that I saw many years ago that made a deep impression on me. It probably wasn’t The Pianist. Maybe The Soloist?

Carrie OLeary
Carrie OLeary(@carrie-oleary)
1 year ago

I love this, Julie, I love both piano and violin, though never had the fortune or time to be able to play (I don’t think one fingered tinkling counts!). As well as classical music, I love listening to movie and game scores. This is one of my favourite pieces of music, Ezio’s Family from the Assassin’s Creed games; when the violin comes in, my hairs on my arms always stand on end… Read more »

Last edited 1 year ago by Carrie OLeary

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