Did TwoSet actually IMPROVE?! [Professional Violinist Reviews]

[@RayChenViolinist]

Want to also level up your playing like Brett & Eddy? Join the Tonic community and practice together: tonicmusic.app/practice-together 🎵

[@LinhChi93]

@raychenviolinist this is a spoiler for your vid already 🤣🤣

[@millyday]

Tonic doesn't work on tablet! Off screen to setup!😢

[@Forbiddenjadetheonly]

You, Sir, are God's gift to mankind! The way you play the violin... it touches my soul in nooks I've never known it had! Hearing you play brings me a little closer to heaven. THANK YOU for it ❤

[@V.k.Youtube]

It's soo lucky for us to have a top class solo violinist to give us violin tips ❤❤🫡💗

[@angeliawu3247]

Did you miss a note?

[@ViolinMechanic]

I went to their tour concert and boy I must say their tone is so rich and juicy. So much better than when they first started their channel.

[@RDMusicStudios22]

Hey man! How was your day?

[@kingkongwingkkw]

Totally agree!! When I heard them play I was thinking “hmmmm they don’t sound like KZbinrs at all”🤣🤣🤣

[@Cloxxki]

I might go to the Amsterdam show but I'd really raise the average age there.

[@shizhixv5856]

Yeah but their tickets are even expensive than Hanh's! Isn't that too much...overconfident?

[@oxoelfoxo]

go! it'd be great to be surrounded by kiddos at a concert and cheer along with them@@Cloxxkiand you might see ppl your age, too, who knows?

[@BadGirlFan]

My impression of Twoset was that Brett was more of a technical player and Eddy was more of an artistic player. This was based on just watching their body language and general vibe, I don't have nearly the skill or knowledge to tell it by the sound since I'm not a musician myself and had limited exposure to classical music before TwoSet. It was interesting to hear your analysis arrive at a similar result while actually knowing stuff 😅

[@wakingtheworld]

There was an interesting vid they did a while back where a group of very young musicians had to rate their ability and choose the best violinist for each piece. One critique of Brett was that he stood still and they didn't feel that he 'felt' the music. For the next piece he 'moved' - what a difference! The vid was titled KIDS DECIDE WHO'S A BETTER VIOLINIST

[@kennethlingad]

interesting

[@ethyrinkairos3164]

I don't know much about violin, but I actually got the opposite impression - Brett's playing feels smoother and more natural/relaxed (better technique?), while Eddy's playing and technique feels more intentional, almost like he has this box of tools and his mind is constantly whirling, choosing which tool to employ.

[@MehmetErenAksu]

I’ve always imagined Brett as a wonderful violin virtuoso and Eddy as a great composer .

[@droidgeist]

Brett is a great composer. Have you heard his lo-fi masterpiece??!

[@CJ-rx5fi]

This comment would break Eddy’s heart 💔

[@nickcarroll8565]

@@droidgeistI need something new to study to

[@lucygoosy4123]

​@@droidgeist Also his movie track, and Jungle Phonk

[@LinhChi93]

I'll always think of Brett as concertmaster track, and Eddy's on the soloist track

[@jcortese3300]

I feel like they started to realize what was really possible for them, and that the ceiling was only there in their minds. I think it was the "nel cor piu non mi sento" video where Eddy basically murdered himself to get to the last bar of something he had never imagined was possible for him that really illustrates that: they both found out that they didn't have the limitations they thought they had. As an amateur musician (harp) who ground myself into dust for a year to get to the end of a prestige Debussy piece, that was also a huge change in my sense of how I relate to my instrument. I don't say "can't" anymore, ever. That video meant a lot to me, seeing him just INSIST on learning something he thought was outside of his musical universe. I think they learned that it wasn't a technique shift they had to make or a talent shift: it was an attitude shift: "I AM GOING TO DO THIS, PERIOD." Turns out that was the missing ingredient. (Although of course the right instrument helps, too.)

[@e2pii213]

Here, in this recent ABC (Australian Story) documentary you can find the turning point: 'How @twosetviolin is shaking up classical music | Brett Yang + Eddy Chen'

[@ZiaElohka]

Thank you for mentioning that video. Found it. It's amazing to see the struggle and perseverence.

[@WeilunP]

I love the caring big brother vibe that Ray carries whenever he is with Brett and Eddy, or when he reviews their playing. Of course Brett and Eddy are not perfect, they have a lot to improve, and they need to practice more (like we all do), but they are trying their best to be musicians as well as KZbinrs. They probably will never reach Ray or any violin soloist's level no matter how hard they try, but the message they convey and their goal to bring classical music closer to the next generation, is priceless. You are awesome Ray!! Thanks for the video, both as a Twosetter and a fan of yours! Can't wait to hear you play live again!

[@luznnnnn9524]

Why would they not be able to reach the Level of a soloist tho, if they put in the work anything is possible I think.

[@Y3llow_Submarin3]

next life@@luznnnnn9524

[@WeilunP]

@luznnnnn9524 Same answer as why there are only so few well known soloists when so many people are learning the violin. Why there is only one Lang Lang when so many families invest thousands and thousands of dollars on their kids' piano playing. Why there is this one student who looks like he/she never studies as hard as others but ace the class anyways. Everyone has their own unique potential and talent, and of course at the same time, everyone has things he or she can't achieve no matter how hard they try, so called limits. And it's ok to have limits. They have dream, they tried, they are still making music and enjoying the process, that's probably more important.

[@luznnnnn9524]

@@WeilunP yes its true there are Familys who Invest thousands but i think the difference between a lang lang and a really great musician is the last percent of effort and passion And i think almost every musician who has the time and Love for their Instrument can achive greatness with enough work and passion

[@Shirafune161]

​@@luznnnnn9524 (didn't mean to ramble so much so here's a tldr: you can still be a great musician without being in the top 1%) I agree, but "greatness" doesn't have to mean God-tier virtuoso. I'd say that the top-tier soloists are the exception, not the standart. Everyone has their limitations and that's fine. Musicians aren't divided into geniuses and failures, just because someone isn't on Hilary Hahn level doesn't mean they're bad or mediocre. A lot of non-world-class-soloist level musicians are still great professionals and very enjoyable to listen to. Personally, I actually prefer the non-prodigy performers because they tend to feel more "organic" to my ears. I do respect the world-class virtuosos and I enjoy watching them and marvelling at their skill, but when I just want ro relax and get lost in the music, I will look for a clean, maybe more "vulnerable" playing where the piece is at the forefront, not the incredible skill of the soloist. To me, neither type of performance is better or worse, they're just great in different ways. Many great musicians work hard and are passionate about what they do, but maybe the virtuosi like Ray or Chloe Chua or HH are just physically (manual dexterity) and neurologically (ability to focus) wired in a way that makes it easier for them to master the techniques that most players struggle with. I don't know how exactly prodigies work, but I imagine there are some bioligical factors that a person just can't control. Doesn't mean they can't still be a fantastic player.

[@mountaingal24]

I've only really started watching them in 2020 and have seen Brett really become deeply soulful and Eddy plays with more of an emotional impact. Together they compliment each other well. They've have said themselves that they are not kid prodigy talent, but just hard work in practice talent. I enjoy them as musicians

[@fool3087]

bretts masterclass performance with vengerov always really impressed me

[@historiareiss1100]

I agree! I love this piece and it was amazing!

[@mrtoast244]

I went to their Auckland concert and they sounded amazing. The entire hall felt like it was full of humor and warmth. Even when they were playing with Brett holding the bow and Eddy doing the fingering it sounded like a top tier performance from someone with like 5-10 years of practice (they played Clair De Lune and it felt like the moon was shining indoors lol... that's my fav piece). I'm so glad they played two whole Encore pieces at the end (they walked off after playing their final piece fully seriously, bowed and walked off... but they came back since we didn't stop cheering, played a piece, then they walked off and then they came back again it was hilarious). They were at peak performance at that point and with no gimmicks you could really hear their skill, the whole concert had me swaying in time like I do at home while listening to recordings of the great performers throughout history. Edit: reading through the comments, literally everyone wrote an essay. I guess these are the kind of people TwoSet attract lol.

[@allinory]

memento mori

[@sabrinai]

If Brett and Eddy have improved (and I'm sure they have) props to them, because I feel like without a teacher and practicing by yourself requires a lot of discipline and kind of a plan and tactic so one really makes progress (tonic surely helps 😅). Of course that is the case for every professional musician.

[@LinhChi93]

They do take masterclasses i think, Eddy def got one from Hilary for his Sibelius 3M

[@sabrinai]

​@@LinhChi93 True!

[@poyenwu]

That's only if you do not like the instrument. I mean, you like the result of practicing but do not actually like playing the instrument itself. Otherwise you'd be craving for practicing every day and need to "find time" for all other stuffs let it be sleep, study, or whatever.

[@JSB2500]

​@@poyenwuI agree 💯

[@adora_pearl]

Agreed…it’s really great that they have each other…their friendship is beautiful..

[@paulamusik2509]

I think the biggest difference to me in two sets playing is that you can hear that they went from orchestra players to soloists. No shade against orchestra players!!! You are great as well and we love you and your work and I don’t mean to say that soloists are better than orchestra players or anything. It just is a very different approach needed there. The way they think about their sound is really really different.

[@IZn0g0uDatAll]

Neither of them would pass the first round of a really good orchestra audition.

[@paulamusik2509]

@@IZn0g0uDatAll They were part of the Sydney symphony orchestra for years?

[@talamioros]

@@IZn0g0uDatAllSo tell us, what orchestra are you in, and whose auditions you've gone for :)

[@IZn0g0uDatAll]

@@talamioros i’m in the Oslo Philharmonic andi have taken auditions and went to final rounds in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Copenhagen, Glasgow and London. Hope it’s good enough. The level of violinists entering these days in those capital city orchestra is way above the 2set violin guys. That Mendelssohn would never in a million year get you a tutti job.

[@澄-j4k]

@@IZn0g0uDatAllWell that Mendelssohn obviously wouldn’t get him a tutti job because it’s not meant to be an audition piece for a tutti job to begin with??Dude literally played in the Sydney Symphony Orchestra PLUS they never claimed themselves to be world-class players, just dudes trying to make classical music accessible - you’re upholding the exact elitism that they’ve been talking about💀

[@ThomUnderStars]

I'm crazy to see how Brett improved in lo-fi hip hop

[@xandraxandra1437]

LOL, would love that!

[@adora_pearl]

iNtErEsTiNg

[@GamerVinsmoke]

Yes very iNtErEsTiNg!

[@Riyoe]

wOw!

[@K10-chopinetliszt]

A m a z i n g .

[@Nathanael_Grant]

I like how this is the top comment

[@Riyoe]

@@Nathanael_Grant twoset fans will know why

[@kristintripp967]

Their improvement has had a ripple effect-I first started following their channel 3+ years ago, around the time I decided to get more serious about my own violin practicing. They’ve inspired me along the way to stay committed and keep moving forward. I often watch a TwoSet video right before I *go practice!!*

[@ynot5478]

Such a constructive look back at how they’ve improved. I love it when you go into ThreeSet Violin mode. Thank you for this video.

[@NgocAnhNguyen-1501]

I can see that Ray is just like a friend who plays game with, an older brother who cares very much for younger brothers, a father who gives children advices and now a teacher of TwoSet 😂. Music is so amazing and you guys are all so lovely. 🥰 And hope you will keep releasing more interesting video in the future Ray ❤.

[@bonity3605]

So happy that they are growing more each day and finally being appreciated as the talented musicians they are :)

[@AndySaenz924]

Brett and Eddy are actually doing a world tour this year! I signed up to their newsletter to get updates on dates and locations for their next tour. Both guys are doing a great job to establish themselves as serious professional violinists. I’ve seen them grow so much musically on their TwoSetViolin channel.

[@elijimenez7710]

Whoa!❤❤❤

[@wakingtheworld]

Well this tour started last summer in fact, and Europe, Canada, the States and somewhere their end have already been covered. They're taking their time which is nice. I missed out through an accident but next time, gotta be there....

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

Just a precision, that's actually their third world tour. The first one was from 2016 and 2019 . It started as three concerts in Australia which had so much success that they decided to go and perform in other countries (30+ cities on 4 continents). The pandemic forced them to cancel their shows, so in 2021 they made a virtual world tour with several concerts that were livestreamed on all 5 continents. This third tour started last summer. So far they've performed in 23 cities and more are coming this year. (In case you want to watch these concerts, all the recordings available are on my channel, including their show with Davie504 and the concert celebrating them reaching 4 million subscribers. )

[@wakingtheworld]

Replying to my own comment! They're doing a re-tour of their world tour so covering many more cities in Europe and returning to the UK!!! Yay. Got to get to Manchester this time but bought my ticket within minutes of the notification!!

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

@@wakingtheworld You did well in buying your ticket very quickly, the seats to their concerts tend to sell at lightning speed... Enjoy ! 😊👍🏻

[@sabrinai]

Thank you so much Ray for doing this kind of review of Brett and Eddy's growth! Just makes me appreciate them even more.

[@humblesparrow]

I was under the impression that for their world tour, they played the bach double different each time, in the style of a composer that came from whatever country they were in. If they're not playing quite together, it's probably because they just didn't have enough rehearsal time. BTW, loved their show last year!

[@M_SC]

Hmmm I think you may have made that up to convince yourself

[@stevenmeyer9674]

No matter what the endeavor ...there are never any excuses.

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

You're right, during their first world tour they customised their concerts to the country they were performing in. So in almost all of their shows there was a part that they were playing for the first time (the Bach Double in Singapore is memorable 😅).

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

​@@M_SC The videos are literally on KZbin. Maybe next time check the facts before accusing someone of making things up. ;-)

[@HaoLiu_drliuhao]

seeing them improve over the years actually inspire me to practice more.

[@sarasate89]

I was lucky enough to be front row at their London concert in 2023, the absolute force of their playing blew me away at times. Such a lovely, rich sound. It was clear to see they are at the top of their game!

[@hazelco8622]

No sure they could have been lent strads in concert in 2023

[@wakingtheworld]

I missed their London concert (being wheeled into theatre for surgery to a # wrist!) So annoyed not to have been there. But 'TOP' of their game? Not even Vengerov would say that. Never top; always climbing ever upwards but we love hearing them improve along their way....

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

​@@hazelco8622 They were only loaned the Strads for a couple of months for their concert celebrating 4 million subscribers at the end of 2022. For their current world tour they are playing on their Widenhouse that they've had for more than three years now.

[@GoddessPallasAthena]

I think when they have an audience (and a big one at that) they may take their own skills and musicianship more seriously. And I do think having contact with great, world-class soloists does inspire them, and they do learn from them. I think this is great for everyone, certainly their fans!!

[@pranavhari7501]

Who is here after seeing them quit?? Sad as hell

[@frédéricchopinFan.9479]

:(

[@kinga-saraszunyoghy3938]

What even happened 😢

[@saynotzai]

I felt before that Ray was harsher on Brett than on Eddy when talking about their playing (I thought it had to do with Eddy's little brother vibe still think that plays a part) but hearing him talk about their styles I think that personal preference plays a part

[@WorldifySanity]

Not just that, Eddy has always suffered from low self-esteem. So while Ray may give him pointers and constructive criticism in person, he's probably not going to do so on camera out of consideration.

[@MissTwoSetEncyclopedia]

​@@Signe99 Not to dismiss your opinion but Ray, Brett and Eddy grew up in the same city. When they met, Ray was at the beginning of his career while Brett and Eddy were still in uni and TwoSet hadn't even been created. They've been friends for about a decade, so I'm gonna assume the three of them know each other a little bit more and on a deepest level than you...

[@qinnnnn]

love brett's growth, thank you for this video chen

[@totohana07]

I really love to see Ray and twoset all together. You guys are all funny and enjoyful

[@sophelet]

In addition to their individual growth as musicians both technically and expressively-which is a joy to see, and Ray Chen's comments are enlightening-a lot of their greatness comes from their warmth, generosity, genuine humility, inventiveness, and influence on people who have consequently become interested, informed audience members.

[@鈴さん三毛猫の]

To me, the video they did where they played different violins at Tarisio was really impressive. Especially when they played the strad, both had really good resonance and their bowing was so even and clean.

[@JenniferGoldfinch]

Thank you for breaking down their abilities into technique, musicianship and confidence categories and scores . It made it easier to understand the differences between Brett's and Eddy's performances over the years. So much improvement.

[@CheyenneSedai]

Hearing these back to back actually shows it, even when I haven't ever been a very musical person that has the ear for this, as much as I love listening to classical music.

[@undyingsaltedfish753]

I would love to see you interview them this time around! Now that they're finding their legs as concert violinists and you're finding your footing as a youtuber! it's like a switch around!

[@user-yo5yr9yr2h]

I think there 100% is a mental aspect to updating an instrument. I think it helps relax you when working on an instrument that just sounds clearer without as much effort. I experienced this on flute. I also remember a the extreme plateau of improvement after that switch of instruments though sadly.

[@RayChenViolinist]

Curious to see who you think improved more. Brett or Eddy?

[@kj62431]

As you point out, Brett was better technically at the beginning but Eddy was more artistic. Both have so much improved in the other way that they are both very strong in both categories now. That's why they do duets so well. It's like one violin playing all parts.

[@ssmthna21]

I think Brett improved more and faster, but in 2023 I feel Eddy show much improvement too

[@xandraxandra1437]

I have the impression that Brett has more stage fright than Eddy or handles it worse. Eddy seems to enjoy time on stage while playing. Brett is confident when talking, but loses a bit of it when playing.

[@michaelvincent7115]

Brett, more because i think he had more room for improvement. Eddy was a little more musically mature i think in the beginning but now you can see Brett as you said, has become a musician instead of a robot.

[@sarasate89]

I think Brett improved the most, his confidence and the emotion in his playing has shot up. Watching his Mendelssohn performance with Singapore Symphony was like seeing the fully evolved Brett!

[@gimletrose1985]

I really love Eddy's playing for the exact reason why Ray said. His musicality. He makes me feel something and that's what I love about his playing. The new instrument was a game changer! I wonder if he needs new bow too or did he get new bow when he got new violin chan? Seems he has some bow controlling issue, but maybe it's practice lol

[@Yume-Hanabi]

A good piece to compare their growth is their Navarra from the virtual world tour vs their current world tour (especially the Berlin recordings). It’s so good!

[@e2pii213]

TwoSet Violin play Navarra for their Virtual World Tour After Party TwoSet Violin World Tour - Navarra (Berlin)

[@LeNoLi.]

[Professional Violinist] is an understatement. He is an award-winning soloist who tours globally and has released studio albums

[@adin4917]

watching you guys creating together, makes me feel like you've created a youtube pro-violin family, the support you all give to one another is amazing. I'm glad that years ago i stumbled across Twoset's channel to now witness what has grown thanks to great culture and good peoples love, amazing

[@becthomas626]

I've always seen them as musicians, not just KZbinrs, clearly always been amazing even before their growth, and at the end of the day both you and them went to school for this and have shown your talent, which is why I've never, not even then, saw you as any more a musician than them. You may have had more experience, but I have always seen them as musicians because, well, they are lol! also cannot waittttt for TwoSet's next million milestone video, loved them with the orchestra.

[@nancyjfs]

Ray is a prodigy, TwoSet are painfully aware that they aren't. But they are brave enough to bring on Hilary, Ray and Chloe, not to leave out Christian Li, who were born prodigies. We can easily argue that TwoSet has made the biggest contribution to classical music by their connection with millions of young fans. The prodigies have a lot to thank Brett and Eddy for!!

[@hazelco8622]

Ray Chen, fan of yours, and twoset’s Brett and Eddy. Watch both your and their channels! And yes they have improved. They are not at your level but they try to the best of their ability to play well. Glad for both channels in bringing violin and classical music to the younger generation and inspiring them to play instruments and practice.

[@miriams.4341]

Seeing them grow makes me super happy. I mean, they were already better than I will ever be at the start, but the difference is super noticeable!

[@joobin814]

It's so great to see the duo improve by leaps and bounds.

[@aquamarine9568]

Thanks Ray. I have definitely noticed a huge improvement in TwoSet’s playing and I love it❤

[@astroworfcraig9164]

I bet you just made our favorite KZbin violin duo very happy.

[@NancyM1115]

So proud of both of them! It was wonderful watching Brett play the Mendelssohn with the SSO.

[@susannabonke8552]

I cannot enough mention how much you guys helped taking the stigma off classical music! Fuyoo.

[@antine1279]

I don't know much about music but just watching their videos, I can see how much they grew as people. It's not just that they got better at playing, it's also that they express more "mature" and adult versions of themselves. So it's what's behind the playing that matters a lot too, in my opinion.

[@alliu6562]

I think the instrument point is a very interesting and very good one. A lot of artists in many fields (from all across the visual to performing arts spectrum) will argue back and forth on whether your tools (or instrument) is important, but a lot of them miss the point, which Ray pointed out. The skill of the artist and the quality of their tools should complement each other. Is it still *possible* for a master virtuoso to play well on a cheap instrument? Sure. But the Amazon $60 instrument will limit the expression of that virtuoso’s playing. Meanwhile, with a high quality instrument, the virtuoso is more easily able to express the full breadth of their skills and also use the instrument to its fullest extent. On the other hand, if you give a high quality instrument to a beginner, the odds are that the beginner will not be capable of using that instrument to its fullest degree. They lack the skill and knowledge to use it, and are better off using a cheaper, lower quality instrument to practice with. Even if the sound of the high quality instrument is better, the beginner wouldn’t know how to make that sound. Chicken scratches sound the same whether the violin is $60 or $6 million.

[@susanbryant6516]

..though I imagine having a poor quality instrument as a beginner might hold you back, because it’s so difficult to achieve the sound you know you are aiming for…

[@DavidZhou-g3d]

I don’t play the violin but these segment help me to better understand the reason why it is good and why it is not. I enjoy listening to classical music all my adult life but never understood the nuances of what I am listening too. Compared to each musician I can finally understand and can appreciate their performance. Being a very structured person, terminology play a huge part in my understanding what I am listening too. It doesn’t hinder me from appreciate the performance. Its just help me to better understand the “why” I like the performance and why I don’t. I am in my 70’s and I’m starting to learn how to play the piano. Age has never stop me from learning. Someone once told me: “Age is all about mind over matter. If you don’t mind it doesn’t matter. Master Chen thank you for sharing your knowledge in understanding the nuances and sound of listening to violin music. May you have a Blessed “2024” Take Care, and see you on your next video. Have a blessed week. 🙏🙏🙏

[@antine1279]

I'm a big believer in "you should live until you die". Now clearly physical and mental health can play a part as you get older, but as long as you're physically and mentally able to do something, don't let the "age number" stop you. I wish you all the best with your playing :))

[@DavidZhou-g3d]

@@antine1279 Thank you. Have a wonderful and blessed life. 🙏🙏🙏

[@DavidZhou-g3d]

@@antine1279 When people find out how old I am they are surprised and said : “Funny you don’t act your age.” I would say: “Show me a manual on how one should act in their 70’s and I might considered it.” (Not!)🙄That because I’m young at heart ❤️ I don’t follow society norms. If I do you would be dead right now. ⚰️🪦 As Auntie’s Maine once said: “You got to live, live, live!” 😃😄😁

[@antine1279]

@@DavidZhou-g3d it's inspiring to hear that and thank you for sharing! Too many people "believe" they are too old for something/should or shouldn't do something based on age, but that's all it is - a belief. And not a good one to have. I was lucky to have met a handful of people in their 80s and even 90s who lived their lives until they died. Sure they had some medical issues and lived within those limitations, but they LIVED. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours :))

[@DavidZhou-g3d]

I always reflect on having a positive attitude in life. I step over negative people and their negative perception. They just wanted to drag you down to their level. They have no purpose in society. I choose not to participate in their belief. God has been good in his teaching. Take Care and have a wonderful and blessed life. 🙏🙏🙏

[@yayalu8650]

I’ve always wanted a professional opinion on their level of improvement!!! Thanks Ray!

[@theankimpin-fm2sc]

Improvement….is what a teacher looks for, not perfection. So glad to see them, or anyone, improving. Greatest satisfaction ever.

[@rin34567]

You're the BEST SENPAI!!! RAY SENPAAAAI ❤ And, let's give more appreciations for editor san 😭😭😭 love your editiiing ✨✨

[@e2pii213]

For a wider perspective of their improvement, I recommend the recent documentary ABC (Australian Story) made: 'How @twosetviolin is shaking up classical music'

[@nickmooney776]

I 'm in my third month of playing and I'm learning so much from this video as I always learn from Twist videos. They always put their money where their mouth is, practice, practice , practice .Music has over takin my life and music has done so much for my life.

[@JorkinMyPeanitss]

I don't play any instruments but i distinctly recall when they started playing Navarra together, and it sounded better and more "in sync" than i had ever seen them play before, i couldnt keep my eyes (or ears) off of it

[@e2pii213]

While waiting may I have two recommendations from their world tour? If any of you remember their Navarra performances in the last 10+ years: 'TwoSet Violin & Sophie Druml - Navarra by Sarasate - World Tour 2023 Berlin' another piece: 'TwoSet Violin - Handel's Passacaglia - World Tour 2023 Berlin' Berlin was their 2023/24 world tour's second stop. I attended it, then I attended the NY , Seattle concerts too - 4 months later. They DID improve even during that 4 months. Would love to listen them in the next leg. (AU, NZ, Sg)

[@oxoelfoxo]

yo, you watched them in two continents and want to add another one?!

[@e2pii213]

I am working for an international organization, traveling a lot - checking the local classical music performances. I want to be sure they do improve,😁 and extremely enjoying the very different audiences.

[@sabrinai]

"We also want to be better musicians!" That right there made me tear up!

[@Signe99]

I thought they were amazing since the beginning, when they did violin covers in 2014. They were exceptional violinists, but more like the highest-end orchestras in Australia level, not soloist level. They won awards their whole lives, and by the time they graduated from the conservatory, they had performed and competed in Australia, Europe, and Asia. They were the 2 top violinists in their conservatory, since Brett was the concertmaster of their conservatory orchestra, and Eddy was concertmaster of their opera orchestra. Brett was a fellow at Sydney Symphony Orchestra twice, while Eddy was at Queensland Symphony Orchestra. It's not fair that Ray just used a comedy performance from around 2016. They played a lot better in other situations; they just weren't that used to playing in that small stage comedy situation.

[@KickingPebbles99]

started the violin and viola because of brett and eddy, amazing inspipiration

[@香迪卡]

I always think Brett plays violin better. For me, it's quite obvious😂. While Eddy is more rounded. Still interesting to hear others' opinion.

[@nancyjfs]

I love Eddy's emotionality when he plays! Very few musicians do that. But I love Brett too and his Mendelssohn brings me so much joy. His emotions are on his sleeve for this one!

[@ajchandra7735]

Brett is objectively the better player

[@aliceguoviolin]

"that's when i think of them as musicians and not just youtubers", like omg ray you know they both are bachelor of music 😂😂

[@e2pii213]

And it seems very condenscending - regarding all orchestra musicians. They both played first violin in professional orchestras.

[@xephyr417]

There's the engineer that has his bachelor's, then there's the engineer that can build things that don't break. Theres a gap.

[@mellissadalby1402]

Hi Ray! You play awesomely! Brett and Eddy inspire me. Even though I am twice their age, I look up to them as my big Brothers of the violin. RESPECT.

[@tapiolankiira1968]

Wow, You strike as a such an wholesome and genuinely nice chap.

[@hikarii-kun2698]

I hadn't seen them since pre co-vid so it was nice to start from this video! They grew so much! Amazing!

[@freefree5453]

So inspiring to see them as soloists- I know some orchestras would want them to play because they will bring an audience- but their commitment to becoming truly fine soloists is amazing! So many people are only out for the fame/money on KZbin. These guys are the real deal. I love your commentary on their playing as well!

[@joa8593]

They did improve dramatically. The Tchaikovsky was very cautious and not great, but the Mendelssohn I thought was *really good.* I know Tchaik is much longer, but IMO the Mendelssohn is scarier to play so it's a big accomplishment.

[@LinhChi93]

I think it's also about preparation. Brett prepared Mendelssohn a year in advance, and Tchaikovsky just got a few months at most. And the recording quality 🤣

[@fromblackto8940]

Who’s here after they quit? 😢😢

[@krisl.4314]

Love this. And a good part of why I still feel like a “cool kid” when I rock my bachpach 😊

[@kendramiddletonwilliams]

I really enjoyed watching this. Your evaluation of their year-to-year improvement was so understandable, despite the fact that I don’t play violin. I’m a low-rent vocalist on my best day, 😂 but theory and application are universal. One of my best girlfriends coming up was so disciplined about her violin - she wanted to attend an Ivy and that meant she needed to be first chair in the orchestra. She endeavored to practice 20 hours per week since we were 11 - who has discipline and desire like that? By our sophomore year, that first chair in the orchestra was hers. I spent my semester at uni at an opera school in the south of France, I left after 6 weeks. 😂

[@musiciansmaintenance]

So cool to hear an analysis of how these two have evolved as musicians.

[@HappyG1lm0re]

Great review video, love all the positive point outs.

[@MU73KI]

As a casual enjoyer of classical, I really found I could feel Brett's Mendelssohn.

[@g.970]

Love all three of you. Saw Brett and Eddy ‘live’ twice in 2023…… London and Seattle. Next up: see you, Mr. Chen, in Seattle in April. I think you have been a great influence on Two Set. Bret and Eddy have introduced classical music to a whole generation of people who never listened before. That in itself is a great accomplishment. When I saw them in London I took a much younger friend with me. She loved it so much that she recently went to a Beethoven concert at the London Barbican. Before that she would have never entertained the idea of attending a classical concert. Now she’s hooked.

[@oxoelfoxo]

how awesome for your friend (and you, since it's nice to watch concerts with friends)

[@kingkongwingkkw]

Seattle gang hi!!!! I went to the Twoset Tour last year too and going to see Ray Chen in April🎉🎉

[@g.970]

@@kingkongwingkkw I can’t wait . I’m working on my bucket list…..I saw LangLang at the Royal Albert Hall in October 22 when he debuted his new Disney album, then Two Set Violin TWICE in 23, and now Ray Chen in 24. Yay. Sadly they never come to tiny Portland.

[@g.970]

@@oxoelfoxo and now she is hooked on classical music. She recently went to a Beethoven concert with her fiancé at the Barbican in London and they both were enthralled. Two Set has opened up the classical music world to so many people. Me, I’ve listened and played classical music for 60+ years

[@kingkongwingkkw]

@@g.970 No way!! I went to Lang Lang too! His encore “moon over the calm lake” had me in tears😭 I’m also going to Yuja Wang in May. Please lmk if you’re interested in any future classical concerts, we can be concert buddies 😆😆

[@artsilentroad]

After watching the introduction in your video🎉 Wow, they are studying very seriously how to become a violinist.❤ I can feel their concentration and seriousness. This kind of dedicated practice makes them exude the spirit of artists.😮

[@aibohphobia]

Unfortunately I haven't had the chance to experience Brett and Eddy's performances live, but I look forward to that day, just as I'm looking forward to see Ray perform Tchaikovsky in Antwerp next week. Excited!!!

[@lordneeko]

If you can improve slowly, you can improve quickly

[@jonychavez5404]

Now I need the reaction of Twoset to this critic

[@ranxia8984]

2:09 I love this part!❤ Thank you so much for posting this video ray chen

[@liuzhixin1]

I might have misunderstood, but my interpretation is that Ray subtly and tactfully suggested that Brett showed greater improvement than Eddy. This is notable even if Brett initially played better than Eddy. It's somewhat inconvenient as a general trend is that a more skilled player also tends to improve at a faster rate.

[@xandraxandra1437]

I think he said that they both improved but in different ways. Brett is finally feeling the music, and Eddy has the techniques in order. It may sound like Brett has improved more due to Ray talking more about that than techniques. That's what I got from the video, but I have been wrong before...

[@danyaart14]

What rubbed me the wrong way was how he subtly inserts his achievements or subtly attributes twoset’s growth to himself. I feel like he inserts unnecessary dialogue like, “I remember going to that audition”, or “that’s when I started to think of them as musicians” as if they didn’t work as musicians before KZbin. I’m not saying he shouldn’t be proud of his achievements, I’m just saying that it’s in bad taste to do that in this video. Just seems like he is constantly reminding who ranks higher in the musician hierarchy.

[@mimimosa259]

That’s really cool that they’ve continued to pursue musical growth

[@mch2870]

Thank you so much for this video. It is so inspiring to see how much they have progressed even though they were very good players from the start, and so much benevolence from Ray who is such an amazing soloist. As an aspiring opera singer it is sometimes so hard to keep going, especially when you are struggling with some specific technical problems. It's really refreshing, and also a good reminder, to see that you can also improve your musicianship and confidence and that it will boost your performance and in the end, help you overcome these technical problems ! (with tons of practice hours of course)

[@celli_ec._.]

I have a video suggestion Ray, You know how you arrange music that is difficult on violin, instead you should try to compose a piece that is difficult. Then try to learn it under a certain amount of time. Betcha can’t do it 😏😏 But he’s Ray Chen, so if he does do it, he’ll probably succeed 😅😂 Same idea is on Tonic btw.

[@Bakushoui]

Kinda worthless comment (mine) but I agree, hope ray sees this because the entirety of his tonic wants him to do this basically

[@celli_ec._.]

Wait. Or you can give it to Twoset and make them learn it under a certain amount of time 😂

[@TomLeg]

Love this video ... I've wondered how you or Hillary Hahn really view Brett & Eddy and other "ordinary" professional musicians

[@edbartek6550]

Eddy sound amazing with that instrument.

[@WhistleblowerRIP]

They've totally improved! It's insane. That's what happens when you practice 40 hrs a day.

[@susannabonke8552]

When Tiger mum supports you

[@sabrinai]

Oh my god! Can't wait for this vis and hear an expert opinion about their playing's development (I'm biased as hell)!

[@Ethanviolin0320]

Hello Ray! I loved you’re videos! They’re so awesome!!!!

[@wakingtheworld]

Thanks for this, Ray. They are truly a force to be reckoned with as KZbinrs, as absolute game changers encouraging classical music around the world, inspiring people to take up an instrument, such as myself, but also AS MUSICIANS. I hope we'll hear more of them playing seriously this year. Eddy's 5MIL subs is gonna be epic... Pssst, he needs to perform Sibelius with full orchestra!! He deserves it!

[@oxoelfoxo]

hmm, i hope they consider that instead of a new concerto. the 3M's livestream audio sucks

[@wakingtheworld]

@@oxoelfoxo I know! Such a pity but they didn't have the huge amount of money needed to hire a hall, the orchestra, the professional filming etc. Brett was THE orchestra!!

[@dvillebenny1445]

They have always been able to read the notes its the technique and confidence that has improved. Ray has been very kind to Eddie and Brett.

[@VoyageMediaGroup]

Tonic app - i play violin and i have 2 young children who are getting inspired by tonic to practice every day. 1. You can actually listen to child prodigies practice - this both brings people into the intimacy (and truth) of the hard work ethic and focus that prodigies actually live by - as well as really the honor of getting an insider's view, not to mention inspiration. 2. teachers - can listen to their students practice anytime.

[@koopalovetoast2409]

But you can listen to things like Eddy playing Barbers concerto in it's entirety back in 2012 and thats pretty good.. he practiced like crazy for that I am certain..

[@e2pii213]

AND you can hear the infamous sholder rest drop - 12:06 'Eddy Chen's Barber Violin Concerto'

[@koopalovetoast2409]

I know 😂​@@e2pii213

[@Irishlassmm2]

Thats right! Consistency and hard work are key

[@miquelcanosasanteularia1678]

This will be fun

[@МаксимХайрун]

This is so incredibly inspiring, thank you for posting this!

[@royoser9956]

It's almost as if Brett and Eddy have a friend who is also a famous violin soloist who has given them coaching and advice, suggested they buy new instruments from an American violin maker, etc. But who could that friend and famous violinist be? I do not know. 😉

[@EyeLean5280]

I really appreciate that you're doing this now, when you can point out all their improvements, instead of doing it back then and talking a lot of smack. That would have been unkind, for on thing, and looked like sour grapes on your part, for another. As it is, it's a win-win-win because your non-musician viewers are learning some important appreciation stuff.

[@sabrinai]

Still love the new challenger "Ray Bae".

[@Theaddekalk]

now we need reaction of this from brett and eddy

[@e2pii213]

They are starting the 3th leg of their world tour (Australia, NZ, iIngpore) this Friday. 7 concert in less than 3 weeks, so you might have to wait a little:-)

[@lastnamefirstname8655]

they're amazing! so are you!

[@Paprikajlo]

I'm in no way a professional musician, i just like trying to play what i hear, but i found a new, good, instrument imbues so much more enthusiasm towards practicing.