The Kennedy Center Honoree uses his violin to transport audiences
Itzhak Perlman has been a superstar of the world music scene for decades. He familiarized millions with the music of Eastern European Jews, known as klezmer music, and popularized it by weaving in elements of American folk and classical music. (I’d say “Fiddler on the Roof” if done by Beethoven-era composers, if that weren’t so reductive of the music’s vibrant complexity.)
Perlman’s embrace of those elements were evident on Thursday night (Apr 10th). The most obvious being the inclusion of bluegrass stalwart and mandolin-shredder Andy Statman. Statman and Perlman teamed up on a song the former wrote, which combined the mountain air of bluegrass with the jumpy Eastern bloc sounds of Perlman’s fiddle.
The name of this concert is “In the Fiddler’s House.” Perlman has long embraced the label, dispensing with the pretense so often associated with instrumental music. Perlman’s striking ability to convey emotion through his instrument is wholly engrossing.
Perlman’s mastery remains effortless. From his center stage seat, he drew his bow across his string (to borrow a phrase) and what came out was magical. Stoic, it seemed like Perlman barely moved a muscle. But he could leave us gasping for air in one emotional moment, or stomping our feet the next.
Perlman’s fiddle took us to Jewish weddings where brides cried “because they want to;” he bowed out songs found round at the Passover table, and brought the sabbath sunset to the stage. Each movement introduced by emcee and music director Netsky. At times there were a dozen musicians backing him. This included three singers alternating between vocals and instruments, as well as a three-person horn section.
Perlman has been honored with myriad prizes for the significance of his career. He is a Kennedy Center honoree, a recipient of both the National Medals of Art and of Freedom. Because he bridges divides. The 90 minute performance opened a window into Itzhak Perlman’s culture through his music. It was educating and entertaining—never pontificating. It’s clear the klezmer legend feels as I do, that song is the least preachy educator there is.
