Violinist David Garrett, latest crossover sensation, focus of special airing on MPT
Count on a new crossover sensation every year or so, and count on American audiences being introduced to same during pledge drives on PBS. David Garrett is the latest example.
The German-born fiddler was mentored by the extraordinary violinist Ida Haendel in his early years and earned some money modeling while studying at Juilliard (his rugged, dress-down looks continue to play a part in his popularity). His "Live from Berlin" concert is getting air play in the States this season, including at MPT, which will air it at ...
noon and 8 p.m. today (Saturday the 20th); also 10:30 p.m. today and noon Sunday (the 21st) on MPT2.
Garrett likes to mix classical, or at least light classical, with rock and pop covers in his concerts. Although I can't say I've been overwhelmed by what I've heard so far, it's easy to understand how Garrett would gain a following.
To give you a little taste of the live show, here's the promo for it, plus a more revealing performance in a traditional concet hall setting, without the light show and orchestral support. I have to say I like the fact that a young violinist in our day will even think about playing something as deliciously old-fashioned as Zigeunerweisen, so I give Garrett high marks just for programming it. I also think he's got the chops and a good deal of the style for it, too.
