FINALLY! One of the great knocks against classical music is the lack of humor on the part of those of us who are the greatest proponents of the art. This is, of course, specious. Musicians are frequently hilarious, and if the public actually knew what goes on backstage they would be shocked.
But even more promising is the untapped potential to bring the humor that many musicians have into the mainstream. This alone would help break down the supposed barriers that exist between classical musicians and the rest of the general populace. So, dear readers, I give you this wonderful youtube clip of a Geico commercial featuring one of the best oboists to walk the face of the planet.
Alex Klein was Principal in Chicago for many of my years there. Astonishing technique, and even better musicianship. His career in the orchestra was cut short by hand problems, and he now teaches @ Oberlin. The best thing about this clip is watching Alex trying very, very hard not to crack up. Enjoy!
Ps. For a nice sum I’d be willing to prostitute myself for Apple, Inc. How ’bout dat, Steve? Eh?
BILL!!! My man! How are you? Couldn’t agree with you more. Classical musicians tend to be emotionally enslaved by the idiosyncracies of their (our) art. But its so nice to play, one wonders if there is life outside it. Anyway, the Geico spot was fun to produce, and yes, the whole thing is true down to the smallest detail. They helped me out, I wrote a thank-you letter, and next thing I know they want me to do the ad. Sure, what the heck, why not? We only live once. If I am clown enought to play Peter and the Wolf while acting like a duck, being part of a car commercial should be easy… and it was. I had a lot of fun. Hope you are well. I miss you and working with you, and wish you all the best!!!