Itzhak Perlman, whose violin struts and sings, shares more than perfect notes and unrivaled technique. He transfixes and enraptures with an emotional intensity that brings tears to our eyes and a twinkle to his.
We express our praise in shouts of applause and bravos; our gratitude resonates loudest in our hearts.
Perlman, who celebrated his 70th birthday on Aug. 31, was born in 1945 in Tel Aviv. He contracted polio and lost the use of his legs at age four. Not long after this physical insult he began studying the violin. Polio could have rendered him depressed or angry. Instead he soared on the strings of a golden instrument.
By age 13, upon completing his violin studies in Israel, Perlman started touring with Ed Sullivan’s “Caravan of Stars,” a showcase for talented children. America loved him. He loved America.
Perlman emigrated to the US in 1958 and studied at Juilliard in New York City. He made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1963 followed by meteoric concerts in Israel and the UK. Perlman’s concentrated, accessible brilliance stunned listeners.
Whether performing the masters or contemporary composers, Perlman weaves indelible, technical, powerful musical tapestries. We can’t get enough of him.
In 1993, John Williams composed the theme for the film “Schindler’s List.” Perlman was the soloist. For the less musically inclined, this haunting piece and the violinist’s interpretation endeared him to a new audience.
Violinists of Perlman’s stature require enormous stamina. But standing on stage for two hours is not an option. Perlman wears braces. He can’t walk without crutches. He performs sitting down.
Perlman has never hid his disability. Encumbered by steel supports, he offers a dazzling smile, takes a seat, picks up his bow and enters the musical universe. Each note champions the disabled.
Perlman is a world emissary of understanding, peace, dignity, achievement. He crosses rigid political barriers individually and with the Israel Philharmonic. Under Perlman, boundaries collapse. Unities abound.
Perlman may be 70, but you’d never know. Passion travels long and well. You inspire us, Mr. Perlman. Like a star in the night, you shine on us with strings of gold.
Copyright © 2015 by the Intermountain Jewish News
