02 May A Modern Day Fantasia
When I think of the word “violin,” my mind is filled with the images and sounds of an orchestra. I envision a reserved musician and classical serenades. But after tonight I’m confident I’ll associate the gorgeous string instrument with something new: Lindsey Stirling.
Last night the 28-year-old violinist, composer, dancer, and America’s Got Talent veteran helped SunFest fans celebrate Friday on the Tire Kingdom stage. I didn’t know much about the graceful artist before her set, but I knew I couldn’t miss her. Everyone I bumped into on Flagler Drive was buzzing about the musician. All those people grabbed three friends and cozied up to SunFest’s middle stage just after dusk. There, Stirling dazzled new and old fans with her inspiring violin skills and surprising choreography.
Dressed in a black skirt, top, and wild tights, Stirling furiously played on her violin, while jumping, dancing, lunging, kicking, moonwalking, and bending into positions many can’t master after two years of yoga. Her choreography would have been impressive if she were a dancer or a singer, but because Stirling had to constantly hold her instrument and command the bow the performance was absolutely riveting.
“Wow, you’re a beautiful sight,” Stirling said to the crowd. The creative star explained SunFest was her first show back in the United States, after previously touring in South America. “Thank you for welcoming us back.”
She was not on stage alone. The violinist was joined by a drummer and keyboardist (who later joined the dancer near the front of the stage with a keytar)! Joy was written all over Stirling’s face, and her fellow musicians also radiated happiness. It was impossible not to think, these people have the best job in the world.
I was particularly mesmerized during her song “Shadows,” where a video of Stirling’s shadow was broadcast behind her. Her moves on stage synced with the feed giving the illusion of her performing naturally with her Peter Pan counterpart.
While Stirling does not sing, she has at times collaborated with vocalists. Dia Frampton sings on her song, “We Are Giants,” and during the track a video of earth and the lovely Frampton played in the background.
Another surprising nugget I learned is Stirling first started gaining traction by covering songs from the video game “Zelda.”
“I owe my career to Link,” said the YouTube star, before performing the video game’s treasured medley.
Stirling’s music is an ethereal blend of classical, EDM, and pop. Each song tells a story, and Stirling continues to awe listeners by giving her music life through quirky videos and costume arrangements. At times, I felt my eyes well up, for reasons I can’t quite put into words. I felt honored to be in the crowd, I felt overwhelming happiness for the star who has battled criticism and misunderstanding.
Stirling is able to show a crowd something they have not seen before, and likely will not see again anytime soon. She is a true creative being, taking old, predictable sounds and turning them on their head. It was an honor to see her live. It was a privilege to see her show.
Come back to South Florida soon!