Nice essay, particularly the bit about a conversation between the orchestra and soloist. Such a lovely way to describe that musical give and take. Hillary Hahn is, indeed, excellent. I do wonder, though, if the musicians we regard as excellent think of themselves that way. Surely they are always striving to improve as well.
A friend, who read this piece, argued the same thing to me in the gym locker room this morning! I can’t speak for anyone, especially not Hahn but the violinist I mention in the essay, definitely suggested that he does not see himself as excellent as Hahn. I want to be better about celebrating such hard work and perseverance and striving for excellence in myself.
The YouTube video you linked made the perfect soundtrack to catching up on some of the recent posts on your substack. I know that means I wasn't listening carefully but I'll leave that to you. 😉
Thank you for sharing your reflection on reaching for excellence even when we aren't working towards the level of excellence like that of Hillary Hahn.
Nice essay, particularly the bit about a conversation between the orchestra and soloist. Such a lovely way to describe that musical give and take. Hillary Hahn is, indeed, excellent. I do wonder, though, if the musicians we regard as excellent think of themselves that way. Surely they are always striving to improve as well.
A friend, who read this piece, argued the same thing to me in the gym locker room this morning! I can’t speak for anyone, especially not Hahn but the violinist I mention in the essay, definitely suggested that he does not see himself as excellent as Hahn. I want to be better about celebrating such hard work and perseverance and striving for excellence in myself.
So glad you had this opportunity! Off to listen to that concerto!
I love that several people shared they listened to the performance!
I say excellent napping and wearing red lipstick is nothing to sneeze at. I certainly appreciate those two art forms.
The YouTube video you linked made the perfect soundtrack to catching up on some of the recent posts on your substack. I know that means I wasn't listening carefully but I'll leave that to you. 😉
Thank you for sharing your reflection on reaching for excellence even when we aren't working towards the level of excellence like that of Hillary Hahn.