2nd Fiddle

Leonard Bernstein, the famous orchestral conductor was once asked which instrument he thought was the most difficult to play. 

Without hesitation, he replied, ‘The second violin.  I can always find many first violins, but to find anyone who plays second violin, or second trumpet, or second flute with the same enthusiasm, is difficult.’  He continued to explain that if nobody played the second instrument of any group of instruments then there is no harmony.  It is the harmonies and chords that make a melody into music and give it depth and richness. 

Harmonies are so important

A number of years ago I was privileged to attend a concert in Manchester of the great Luciano Pavarotti.

Taken from the programme of the night of the concert



At the end of the concert it was good that when he accepted the applause he acknowledged the hard work and support of the accompanying orchestra and choir that assisted him during the evening’s performance.  Without them, his performance wouldn’t have had the same depth of richness and fullness.  And what an important role they had to accompany the great singer!

The Manchester Chorale that accompanied Pavarotti at his concert that evening

It may seem more rewarding in personal terms to be a solo artist, but without the support of the accompanying instruments or voices, it wouldn’t sound as good.  In fact it would sound a bit empty and hollow.  There are those who crave attention and recognition but don’t worry when others seem to get all the limelight and attention.  Playing second fiddle is so important.