In a Washington, DC, Metro Station on a cold January morning, a musician picked up his violin and played six Bach pieces for about 60 minutes. During that time approximately 2,000 people went through the station, most of them on their way to work. Only six people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk at their normal pace.
He collected $32.
When he finished, no one applauded, no one even noticed.
The Washington Post, as part of a social experiment, had arranged the entire scenario. Playing incognito on a $3.5 million instrument was renowned violinist Joshua Bell. He played some of the most intricate pieces of music ever written. To watch some of the action, check out:
Two days prior, Joshua Bell had sold out a theater in Boston where the tickets averaged $100 per seat.
In a commonplace environment at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty and recognize talent? Do we stop to appreciate it? If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world playing some of the finest music ever written, how many other things are we missing?
And finally, a question I ask, is 'success' in the industry more about opportunity than talent?
Interesting things to think on this Friday morning....
Xxm
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1 comment:
indeed!
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