Joshua Bell

I took a liking to the Joshua Bell reading for a few reasons. First off, I like the idea of the whole "operation". I found it pretty cool that such a big performer would take time out of his busy schedule to play in a subway station. Not only does this show off his talents for an unknowing crowd, I think it shows his love for music over money. Bell is doing this because he said "it sounded cool." Although that phrase doesn't seem like much, I think it represents his thought process as a musician. He is comfortable enough with his music to just play in a subway instead of doing a huge show. Also, I like the way the author tries to bering the subway to life. "At the top of the escalators are a shoeshine stand and a busy kiosk that sells newspapers, lottery tickets, and a wallful of images...." is one of the many descriptions he gives to give the reader a sense of the surroundings. Also, it shows the crowd and how they are not expecting what is about to happen to them. I really liked the reading and I enjoy classical music from time to time, so I feel like if I am ever in a situation like this, I will thoroughly enjoy the performance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNt6cYOCYs4

a link to a performance by Joshua Bell