Renowned violinist delivers talks at Lamar University

Internationally renowned concert violinist Itzhak Perlman recently delivered two talks at Lamar University, one part of the Judge Joe J. Fisher Distinguished Lecture series and one, earlier that day, delivered exclusively to some of the university’s music students.
 
“The trick with playing music is to find your voice,” Perlman said to the students. “You have to have a passion there and a love — you also can’t admire only one performer while you’re nurturing that love, or you will forever emulate them. You need to have something to say; say it.”
 
Perlman has gained international acclaim and awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, four Emmy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, for his emotionally evocative and lyrical performances.

He spoke to the students about a range of topics, including fine-tuning skills, dealing with nerves and the keys to success.
 
“The key is to never be bored,” Perlman said. “Find something that interests you in particular. It’s a challenge, but you always have to be interested in what you do — what may be one way today might become different tomorrow. Be inventive. Assess yourself. Do you love music? Do you have a passion? The worst thing is to feel that your music is a chore. Don’t get caught thinking you have to do something specific, or in a specific way. Do it your own way.”