TwoSet Violin Brett Yang - Mendelssohn 1. Movement - Reaction by Violin Teacher

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Guys and Girls: Thank you so much for all the positive feedback in the comments, I read them all and it is heartwarming! I will try to answer every one of you when I get time! I am a little overwhelmed right now. It feels like an army of Ling Ling's has captured my KZbin page :D Which goes to show what a positve impact TwoSet Violin has. You guys, Brett and Eddy and all the TwoSetters are amazing! I will do the 2nd movement soon!

[@toramenor]

Thanks for doing this. Yes, I would love to watch the 2nd and 3rd movement analysis as well

[@juliejules7780]

I like you. You're a funny guy and unpretentious.

[@Chihuahuauno1]

Can't WAIT to hear your opinion on Mvnt. 2 & 3 - thank you for reviewing Brett's playing...

[@jangoh4332]

Please review Eddy's La Campanella as well! I can't wait!

[@krystal62591]

I'm only 10 mins in but I wanted to stop and say that what you said about Brett's obvious emotional connection to the music and respect for the position he had found himself in on the stage is so real and has made this possibly my favourite conerto to watch, regardless of the few mistakes that occurred. It's such a sincere performance, just makes you smile.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

That is why I had to make this video! The concert was really something special, because these boys worked hard for it on many levels... and I think Brett really is a exceptional violinist!

[@kokod2736]

Brett's sincerity really shines through. It made watching the concert worthwhile despite any minor mistakes.

[@altoclef6688]

For me it is like the comparison between a first love (Brett doing this for the first time) and a long marriage (the top tier soloist doing this for the zillionth time). I am not even that fond of the Mendelssohn in the first place, but Brett made it worth listening to.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

@@altoclef6688 Good comparison!

[@mayinsatmi1440]

For Brett, this concert is his dream come true, you can easily see that he pours his heart and soul into this performance while some soloists just take it for granted that they get to perform onstage with an orchestra

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

That is excactly how I felt listening to his playing!

[@JosephLin-n2w]

I hate you @@SimonStreuffViolinEducation

[@JosephLin-n2w]

Yeah @@sainturiel7459

[@andrewzhang8512]

@@sainturiel7459 ???? you can critique someone without being better it's purely constructive criticism

[@sainturiel7459]

@@andrewzhang8512 that's what she said.

[@aquamarine9568]

Your critique was so interesting and constructive. I agree with you about how humble, engaged and emotional Brett’s playing was. I watched this live and it brought tears to my eyes a few times. It is especially poignant in that he has mentioned numerous times in TwoSetViolin videos about his childhood dream to be a soloist and here we see him live that dream. Thank you for such an informative video. I would love to hear more from you about the second and third movement and the rest of the concert.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you, glad you find it informative. I think somewhere we all want to be soloists ;)

[@JD213]

I was lucky enough to see Gina McCormack play Mendelssohn the same week as Brett performing, and I have to say that as outstanding a soloist as Gina is and I know she’s know for playing this piece, but Brett’s performance just shone by comparison. It was filled with so much love and emotion for this piece I had tears just watching him. I couldn’t take my eyes off him.

[@TwoSetViolinEdits]

It was his dream to do this! He put so much heart and soul into the mendy!

[@auntjess]

How interesting. In Twoset's video with Curtis where Brett plays Mendelssohn for the professor, she mentioned the same thing where he tends to play slightly flat and offered some suggestions on hand position adjustments. :) Comparing that video and their live concert, there has been significant improvements (practicing 40hrs a day helps for sure!), but I also understand that some habits are hard to correct esp when you're used to playing in a certain posture. As a piano player, I have many habits which I need to work very hard on to kick and sometimes I still default to old habits.. HAHA. Thanks for your insights! I learnt many things abt violin playing! :)

[@jgunther3398]

if you're trying to change something technical, it can be good to practice less, not more. you could knock it down to maybe 0.40 hrs/day until it's fixed :) i think eddy is the more conscientious player of the two but brett is the one who's always featured for some reason

[@darkcircle899]

I think Brett is the one that is featured more because when it comes to musical accomplishments like winning competitions and getting awards and performances Brett is the more accomplished of the two.

[@yellowcarnivore]

I didn’t expect myself to watch this video in one sitting because it is 45min but I did! I love your critique - it is so informative and heartfelt. Even though I am just a beginner violinist, I could understand where you are coming from because you explained your observations and thoughts very clearly. I remember watching Brett’s performance and although there are a few intonation slips here and there, I am still deeply moved by his music. At the end of the day, people remember the magical moments when the music spoke to their hearts, more so than the pitch-perfect moments☺️ Thank you for sharing this!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Absolutely! Perfection is not the goal. Much more the emotional involvement!

[@lynnccm1442]

I came to the violin later in life, TwoSet inspires me to continue and to enjoy the music I produce. Brett's performance takes my breath away. I was leery of watching this because I feared to have the joy destroyed in nit-picking. I'm pleased that while you were honest about the flaws, you didn't make your review all about them. I felt as if you were enjoying Brett's performance with me. TY, you've gained a new subscriber.

[@aelredwoodard5802]

Highlighting Brett’s musicianship is a real and rare gift as is your excellent technical critique. Thank you.

[@kaylinealsen8536]

As fan of their channel, I think it's great that you reacted to Brett and his journey and how emotional this performamce is. Great video!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you so much! I am a fan of them too :)

[@dvides89]

Very objective analysis of the performance, thanks Simon. I really hope Twoset watches this video, violinists helping violinists is wonderful thing to watch.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you! I just hope they don't "review" my Mendelssohn! :D

[@dvides89]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation Maybe a review of the review and we can go into KZbin Inception. I think your review was respectful and serious, I’m sure they will appreciate it.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

@@dvides89 I love music. I even love when someone just scratches on the violin. Better than doing stupid things like war and stuff... My intention towards other musicians is always good! Thank you for acknowledging it.

[@kj62431]

I am a big fan of TwoSet. I'm also in Music Education so I appreciate so much your comments about how a performance can be successful and not be perfect. I work with young students and have experienced some of the most touching performances that were extremely successful because they were not perfect but instead, honest and from the heart. Thank you!

[@shonen84]

Wonderful analysis! Thank you for sharing. And yeah, we’re all simping for Brett. His sincerity and sweet tone make me always come back to listening to his performance ❤

[@MajahetBijtje]

Very moved about your conclusion. I was there live and wow, the emotion he brought in his playing was so good! As a non-musician I've learned a lot from this video, thank you and I look forward to hearing what you have to say about the rest of the concert! 🎼♥️

[@amore3791]

The system recommended a treasure video and a treasure youtuber to me! As a matter of fact, I am a fan of TwoSetViolin in China. Once the video of this concert came out, I thought that I would discuss Brett's performance on the Internet in a particularly excited and happy atmosphere. However, I found that there were a lot of negative criticisms and blames on our website firstly, such as bad of intonation and cooperation with the orchestra. Some even went so far as to say that his Mendelssohn had no reference at all. At that time, those criticisms made me feel so sad and doubtful and it continued for a long time. As a violin amateur have practiced since childhood, I know how it feels to stand on the stage again and make the child dream come true. This time I saw your video and when I was watching the second half, it really moved me to tears! I appreciate you saying almost everything from my heart! I amazed that you are so professional. You can pick up details that I haven't noticed after watching the concert so many times. I'm really educated. And it's really valuable that you, as a professional, can say something constructive that clarifies what you value about classical music and violin playing. Brett was really great. His performance and your explanation were really inspired me! I am looking forward to your comments on the 2nd movement, the 3rd movement and Eddy's performance, as well as your teaching video, because now I want to practice my violin again!

[@Casutama]

I heard from someone else that the criticism were pretty brutal on BiliBili which I can't understand at all. I'm not a violinist but I'm deeply involved in classical music as a listener and amateur musician of several decades and I found his performance flawed but (like this video showcases so wonderfully) impressive and something to be proud of and I do not know why some people on KZbin and (apparently) many people on BiliBili were/are so negative about it.

[@amore3791]

@@Casutama Yes...I can't understand either😓

[@altoclef6688]

I didn't see the negative criticism here on KZbin. Surely many commented on bad intonation and loss of synch but not in an overly negative way. As long as technical flaws are not in the way of the musical experience they are really insignificant. This was a very emotional performance but still mature, not overdoing things - from a musical perspective it can hardly get any better. I can only guess the negative people are either jealous or the kind of people who think music competitions and being the world champion player are what classical music is about (I think they are wrong).

[@Casutama]

@@altoclef6688 I didn't see many on KZbin, there were a couple, but not overly many. Most people said essentially what you said!

[@amore3791]

@@altoclef6688 Yes on KZbin people are always so nice but I said that on our website (like bilibili) it do had many negative comments at first, I just wondered why the two communities are so different......*sigh

[@Rt-uu4yo]

I am so glad to hear your review of our beloved Brett’s mesmerizing performance. I have never sat through a concerto so exulted like this performance. It was beautiful. Nice to hear a professional opinion.

[@CeciliaTan]

I’m eagerly awaiting your thoughts on the second and third movements! My feeling was once he got through the first movement, Brett settled down and really began to enjoy the moment more and put even more of himself into it. This concert was such a special way to enjoy this music. You don’t normally go to see a symphony and root for the soloist almost like you do for a sporting event, you know? It’s quite unique and I’m so glad this opportunity for him and the SSO came together.

[@ExhaustedOwl]

Agreed, once he relaxed and became more confident the overall performance quality improved.

[@tomiclamor]

all of your comments in this video are absolutely on point! im not a violinist, but your comments about musicianship and the state of classical music today made me feel more validated as a self-taught musician and as someone who just wants to spread the joy of classical music! thank you for this (:

[@yonycka16]

Love the guys! Watch them for 4 years already. And yes, he practiced so much this piece of art, that became one. That mark on the neck says how much he enjoy playing. Both are amazing! A perfect duo.

[@Yume-Hanabi]

Thank you for your analysis! It's really interesting to see the little technical details broken down like that, makes me enjoy the performance all the more. I love how you say it's not about being perfect--I think that's the magic of live performances: it's a truly genuine experience, and the emotional payoff is so much greater. Looking forward to your analysis of the other movements and Eddy's Paganini 😄

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you so much! I also can't wait for to watch the rest!

[@BreddyBang]

Not an experienced violinist, so I appreciate the analysis. In my eyes it’s beautiful, but the way you explain adds another layer. Thank you for this

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I am glad to hear this! :)

[@guitarsarebest6565]

Simon, what a phenomenal analysis that was positive and encouraging at the same time. You are a great teacher and coach.

[@LittleDreamer1412]

I started playing the Violin when I was 28 years old. I wanted to play since I was 17, but it was only because of TwoSet that I finally picked it up 2 years ago. They are very talented and wonderful and I think it's great how they bring Classical Music to a wider audience. I think watching their videos and seeing how much they love playing and how well they show that is what gave me the push to start. You can see at the end of Mendelssohn that Brett was extremely moved and so was I, because I can't thank them enough that they even motivate some adult like me to start playing!

[@eriks2962]

I am grateful that you could produce a critique a their work that is constructive and understanding of where they come from. Too much content online is just shitting on performers/content creators by picking on anything that is not absolutely perfect. So thank you for being understanding and to reput things in context!

[@rosyxiao6889]

I looove Brett's Mendy and i literally touched and cried when i watching the live. Also i like your comment which is really to the point that Brett totally showed his love to music and violin. The sincerity and energy was so well expressed in his playing. I can feel that the orchestra was also moved and cheered by that, so they had such a beautiful conversation in between. Ive watched this half hour concerto almost everyday since it released and i still get excited when i watch it today. The pure emotion is absolutely a strong language that will never go out or fade i think. THANKS again for such a wonderful vedio, looking forward to your new clip.

[@burgundy.v]

Thank you so much! As a non-musician, such reaction videos are very useful and interesting. Looking forward to the 2nd and 3rd movements reaction!

[@burgundy.v]

And yes, the emotional side of this recording is the reason why I'm watching it again and again! It's better to be out of tune a couple of times, than performing like a robot. Music is about creating an emotional influence, isn't it?

[@burgundy.v]

And I love how you want to call him Eddy all the time 😄

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

​@@burgundy.v I had to re-edit all the "Eddies" into "Bretts". I couldn't redo the whole video. I guess I never make this mistake again. :D

[@auricia201]

​@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation I noticed the voice overs and appreciate the effort 🤭 I used to mix their names up too in the beginning

[@leilayh]

love hearing about your analysis. I hope Brett feels the love from his violin gang. I also think what is the most moving is Brett's love for the music and the fact that his childhood dream actually came true.

[@bananana4599]

Thank you for this! Im a non-musician so this is fascinating to watch. I love hearing opinions on what was good and what could have been good/better. Mendelssohn is a piece that took me a while to appreciate, and once i began to like it I couldn’t help but compare famous soloists from each other. Obviously Brett’s isnt at their level… but i did find myself holding my breath at times because it was so lovely. I hope you can make a part 2!

[@Aleatorio693]

I like Brett's interpretation of this concerto. For me, right now, Mendelssohn violin concerto is my favorite concerto. I would say that my favorite part from Brett's playing is the 2nd movement. But my favorite version of this concerto is by Ray Chen - it's really beautiful and have a very clean playing, nothing that I would say: "wait, something's strange here...". Good video!

[@susanbryant6516]

Yes please to more reviews of this concert!

[@desireemau9467]

Thanks for this detailed critique. It was very well thought-out and informative. I was very impressed with Brett's performance and he inspired me to work on the Mendelssohn myself. It has been a great experience overall and your insights on Brett's performance will only enhance my own playing. I can't wait for the second movement!

[@mikecabral1579]

I’m 75 now and listen daily to classical music because of 2Set and a documentary about Janine Jansen. I found Hillary Hahn on there channel two bright stars in this big sky. I also love Paavo Jarvi as a conductor. I only started listening a few years ago and don’t know anything about classical music except that I know what I like and what I enjoy. Hillary and Janine are perfect gifts from God so very talented and grounded woman based upon what I see on KZbin and recordings. I’m so happy that you were kind to Brett because I think he did a great job. I’m basically bedridden but I had see and hear Hillary in person and had that chance when she came to St Louis in September 2023. I was able to bring my daughter and Grandson to expose them to classical music and help me get around and into a seat. A real bucket list type of event for me. Thanks for your video.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

It is beautiful to hear your story about how you got into classical music. There is so much to discover! You will also like Augustin Hadelich, Frank-Peter Zimmermann, Midori Goto and Leonidas Kavakos, just to name a few living greats on the violin. If you like piano too, I can recommend you listen to Martha Argerich, Arcadi Volodos or Grigory Sokolov... if you get the chance to see them live: You'll never forget! And don't get me started with historical recordings... But it is always the best thing to enjoy classical music live! I wish you many more years of enjoyment of this great music!

[@amandas.6500]

27:03 what a great tip for bowing technique! Thank you for pointing it out & demonstrating!

[@gentlespirit4]

Thank you, Sir, for sharing your thoughts and opinions of Brett Yang's (of TwoSet Violin with Eddy Chen) performance. Hope you'll enjoy the rest of this lovely holiday season. Stay warm and take care.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thanl you so much for your lovely comment!

[@HappyG1lm0re]

So happy I discovered this channel

[@auricia201]

This kind of insight on classical music is the reason I subscribed to twoset, so I'm happy I found your review! Even though it was aimed at violinists, as a non musician, it helps me appreciate classical music more 😊 Subscribed!

[@missaisohee]

+1

[@Jay-gl1ch]

I am a self-taught violinist (who incidentally, also referenced from your past videos!). I'm not a music major but I do perform sometimes for uni events. I always came out of "auditions" heartbroken as I underperform a lot (shaky bow and very very off intonation). But I discovered something from those utter failures. I was "closing" my playing too much. Rigid in its pursuit for perfection, it ends up straying farther from a satisfactory musical experience. It sounds counterintuitive, but being free is what matters on stage. I really appreciate how you bring out this idea in this video. I'm on my way to breaking free from seeking perfectionism and hopes it brings me to a better place haha! P.S. I reference Hilary Hahn's recordings so there's that as well 😂 It's always a bad idea to expect such level for a hobbyist like me but watching them has helped me a lot in my journey.

[@JenniferGoldfinch]

I really appreciated your in depth analysis of Brett's playing. Your explanations were very clear, concise and showed a full appreciation of beauty of music, not just the technicalities and having to be absolutely perfect. There's a quote somewhere that perfection is imperfect. Your comments reiterated that time and time again. Thank you so much for making this video.

[@thecatofnineswords]

The passion in performance and true love of playing is why I loved watching Brett perform this piece. It is also why I play. I am impressed at your continuous ability to pick the precise details of Brett's occasional intonation issues. My ear is not that good yet. (Maybe one day?) I learn so much from listening to and watching imperfect performers, as we get to see the imperfections, talk about them and learn why they happened and how to improve on/from them. Surprise Mr Roger! Ohmygoodness. I also agree, 4th finger is always the best finger.

[@Nature-ps7md]

Being human is your best quality, please dont lose it, all the best!

[@marcoscabrera5357]

Simon! Thank you so much for this! I love your respect and above all your humbleness when talking about Brett’s musicality and skills. I learn a lot from yogur videos.

[@hildewong5281]

Thank you making this video. I appreciate your comments and highlighting what was important in his playing during a live performance. It was inspiring to know that making music and drawing the emotions are more important that the slight intonation issues. I look forward to your comments on the Bach Double and the Paganini.

[@winterswallows]

What a great video Simon, it is insightful, thoughtful and oh-so professional!. Thank you for your excellent review. I was so lost in Brett's beautiful performance, that I missed or ignored all those tiny "hiccups" I just love his interpretation, I have loved Brett and Eddy from their first post, they have done something impossible, bringing classical music to the masses and all done with humour and humbleness. I look forward to the next movements. I have subscribed, I love your analytical mind.

[@tamarsharma3914]

It is important to distinguish and be able to learn from the performance of different musicians, thank you for the critique and very helpful observations! I am gonna send this video to my son who is learning the first page of this concerto.. many thanks!

[@davidspear9007]

Thank you for your wonderful honest and generous critique - it was truly fascinating to listen to your insights into Brett's beautiful performance.

[@kristinajohansson5099]

Please go on and also give Eddy critique. They have contributed to my journey to discover the classical music more deeply than I ever have before. I learning the piano, listen to music, go to our concerthall and of course I am a twoset fan. And listen to you help my journey even more. I am so impressed of their concert. You talking about it, deepens my experience more.

[@sarasate89]

Thanks for this! I loved hearing your thoughts and explanations. Watching this live (over livestream) was a fantastic experience. I had to watch it multiple times, as watching live I couldn't relax as I knew how much the performance meant to him!

[@dmwalker24]

Yes the shifts can be a bit noisy, but if I'm honest, I kind of enjoy it. I'm so glad to hear you say that some performances of this concerto can be rather 'odd', because I was worried that was just my quirky impression. In Brett's performance I see a fairly coherent idea of what the piece should be, and it's also rather clear where there is influence from both Ray Chen, and Hilary. Not bad sources to draw inspiration from. I think he did a wonderful job, and I think you're right that he is a far more serious and impressive musician than they often like to portray in their videos.

[@susanbryant6516]

Very interesting to see the way you actively critique and observe, and yes, I did learn something from your analysis.

[@finaxx1261]

what a nice video :) i wish twoset reacted to this...

[@toramenor]

I really enjoyed your comments (even though I'm not a violinist). "Who isn't a simp for Brett?" :) lol Also, I agree with what you said in the end, that in some respects Brett's performance was better than some professional soloists' (not in technique of course, but maybe in musicality or the emotion he was able to convey).

[@angelmccoy4884]

Do I simp Brett Yang? Who doesn't? lol #ProudTwoSetter ❤‍🔥

[@kaistinakemperdahl9667]

Vielen Dank für dieses Video! Dieses Konzert zu spielen, ist mein Kindheitstraum (an dem ich Jahrzehnte später immer noch arbeite.) Du erklärst hier perfekt, warum diese Musik so unglaublich wunderbar und zeitlos ist.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Ich habe zum Beispiel auf die Chaconne von Bach 15 Jahre lang hin gearbeitet. Es hat sich gelohnt und ich kann es kaum erwarten sie wieder auszugraben. Es lohnt sich immer geduldig seine Ziele zu verfolgen.

[@kaistinakemperdahl9667]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation danke. Und dieses Video hat mich noch mehr dazu ermuntert, weiter zu üben.

[@Aeliaable]

This is awesome! Your explanations are very thorough! So much detail! I feel I can better appreciate this performance now

[@dianezhang5624]

great video！looking forward to the reaction to 2. and 3. movements!

[@kalef.l965]

I loved the video and the analysis, I am not a person who "practices" music, I am quite the opposite, an engineering student. But your and their channel has captivated me so much that I'm willing to watch videos like yours because I really feel a passion, something more, something different with Brett's interpretation, for someone who doesn't fully understand that beautiful world because it's not where I work, I can only give my opinion from the emotions it provokes me (even with some skepticism) but simply amazing your video. Thank you.

[@cathycole9577]

Congratulations to Brett on a beautiful concerto. I enjoy listening to this teacher critique Brett. However, when this teacher played those examples with his fourth finger...the teacher saying that Brett was flat, I heard the teacher play it on the sharp side. I'd love someone to check it with a tuner. It was a fair critique in general. The person critiques kindly.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Might be true, that I was sometimes a bit sharp. I demonstrated it mainly to show how the fingering works that I would suggest. I certainly would need to practice that too. ;)

[@RMBlake007]

SImon: I'm glad you were able to "catch" and voiceover where I believe you may have been calling Brett, Eddy. You did a great job in the edit, and I don't suppose many people even noticed.

[@Grace-le8it]

Hello :) Thank you so much for your this video. I don't play violin, which is why your analysis helped me to understand the performance better. Also thank you for reacting to this in a similar way you would to any other professional performance. I am so happy that Brett is taken seriously as a musician and a soloist and not just a random youtuber :) take care!

[@mille_fiori]

Your video suddenly popped up out of nowhere. At first I thought that diving into such deep details might destroy the musical impression, but the opposite was the case: your explanations are so exciting and comprehensible that I watched the video in one go. Thank you for the many explanations and the immersion in both the technical details and the interpretation of the music. It was a lot of fun!

[@donnadee1966]

Talk about grace under pressure! They started the Bruch and it took Brett about 3 measures and he was ON it. Prank of a lifetime!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Bruch beginning is awesome! Imagine they started with an lesser known piece :D

[@donnadee1966]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation It is an iconic piece... still, I do not think we will see a lot of "stump the soloists" in our concert halls. Have you seen Eddie play Sibelius?

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

@@donnadee1966 Not yet! Did it happen in this concert?

[@donnadee1966]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation No, it was an earlier concert. :)

[@susanbryant6516]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation it was a livestream for 3mil subscribers. Like Brett’s 2 mil Tchaikovsky, it was streamed from their Singapore lounge room with terrible sound recording, with one playing the other being a one man orchestra. Very quirky presentation, but great playing none the less. Ray Chen made a review of Eddys Sibelius that was interesting, but perhaps your reviews are a bit better, youre a very good analyst/teacher!

[@evaquintanar6798]

Please do the second and third movement!! As a non musician but music lover and ling ling wanabe would be so grateful for it, I learned so much. Graciaaas

[@fabiankretzer7775]

I always like to watch people emotionally and professionally engaged with their craft. Even if I don‘t know anything about it. It was interesting and fun to watch. Greetings mate 😊

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Merry Christmas Fabi! Are you in H-Town around holidays? If we get a beer together would be nice :)

[@wakingtheworld]

21:48 : "He is not an experienced performer for this concerto" - Yes indeed, he's had no real experience playing at this level, in such a setting and is, in fact, playing his first, very public (not forgetting nearly 40K livestreamers) solo performance. Glad you acknowledged this in your critique. Yes, it's not always about playing notes perfectly... I'm still struggling just to play the right notes mind!* ... Brett put his personal stamp on this piece and I, for one, loved his interpretation. He only ever wanted to become a violin soloist and listening to your praise makes me feel he'd rank up there with the greats had his life turned out differently.... *I wouldn't even be learning the violin were it not for this incredible duo.

[@Casutama]

*nearly 50k livestreamers! (also, yes to everything else you say)

[@wakingtheworld]

@@Casutama I watched the livestream - wasn't aware numbers got that high but hey, awesome that it did considering the time out needed to watch the whole performance and for many, at an awkward time of day!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I really think it is important to keep someones path to the soloists stage in mind. Especially when we start "judging" and "comparing". That doesn't mean, that I would try to overlook flaws in his playing. Much more the opposite: It makes his achievments so much more meaningful.

[@wakingtheworld]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation Absolutely... Funny to think that the path he chose with Eddy, led him to fulfill his dream anyway BUT I'm sure he prefers this path to that of a pure soloist... TwoSet's mission 'to keep classical music alive' is hugely successful and he and Eddy have inspired SO many to take up the violin (or another instrument) or even to pick up where they left off... One recent comment: "TwoSet have inspired me to take up the violin again after 50 years..." Wow!!! They have made classical music fun and entertaining. That image of Hilary walking on the stage of their tour holding a hula hoop is one example... Despite their buffoonery, they command such respect in the music community which is how they could be loaned a pair of Strads. Thank you for this appraisal, Simon. I look forward to the others on their performances...

[@ellaking703]

Awesome video! Your critique was easy to understand and very informative. I’d love to see more content where you critique/explain the technique of different soloists. If you’re amenable, the Heifetz Pag24 recording :)

[@debbiegilbert5393]

Thank you for this wonderful analysis of Brett’s performance. You love his sensitive and humble playing and beautifully explain why but you are also honest about those small intonation problems. It is good to be reminded that perfect intonation is not everything. There is a bigger picture. I’m a flutist and not a violinist so I found your information about the figure 8 bowing very interesting. I look forward to your analysis of movement 2.

[@aldoingermany]

Fantastic approach to learning! Thanks.

[@johnpeers6540]

Simply great!

[@nadhifa_00]

I'm not a musician, let alone a violin player, but I watched the entire video and I really like that you explain it in detail! yes, even though I don't really understand it just a little because I also watch twosetviolin, I still enjoy watching it :D Also, 35:49 FR WHO ISNT A SIMP FOR BRETT!!!♥

[@JoDON111]

I feel like Brett could be blushing while watching your video: like especially the start where you mentioned: how wouuld you analyse a professional violinst

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I am sure that Brett knows that he is pretty good on the violin! Every violinist on that level should have some good confidence in their abilities! It might be interesting to hear, what he thinks about my opinion though :D

[@oxoelfoxo]

Yes please, the two other movements, the Bach double and the rondo!!

[@amandas.6500]

I'd love to hear your review of the second movement, the Bach Double, and of course Eddy's Paganini! I've watched this performance about 7 times, and I'd love a fresh take on it.

[@bernardwolff8742]

Been a little shocked to see the initial thumbnail first. "Roasted" and with a hand held infringement of the face as if to say „Brett embarrassed himself". Good to see it wasn’t meant that way. Thanks for the great review and honouring ! ❤

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Sorry for the clickbait on the thumbnail. Times are tough...

[@sonyag5893]

Lovely explanations and observations! Also, quite nice listening to this again at NOT 6h30 in the morning while texting my boss that my car won't start so sadly I will be late.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

"sadly" ;)

[@susanbryant6516]

You can watch it again anytime if you go to the Live bit on the KZbin channel… not sure if you know that,ive seen a few ppl commenting that they wish they could see it again, not realising its available.

[@potsdam521]

Liked very much the idea, of who is into it musically, thats really true …

[@Lookatthisguy0017]

Nice breakdown of Brett yang play, i hope he see this video so he can improve more

[@mariavidineeva2524]

29:59 - all of us during the 4mil livestream But actually a really great and insightful video, thank you!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

:D It was really great camera work and production quality in their lifestream!

[@lollylula6399]

I think everyone is a simp for Brett and his gorgeous playing :) I'm a classical music enthusiast but don't know too much about it, I really appreciated your analysis, insights, and enthusiasm for Twoset's work and Brett's gorgeous concerto. I took ballet lessons age 3-16, and I find a similar thing when I watch ballet performances now - I want the ballet dancers to have good enough technique that when you're watching them you're not worrying or thinking about the technique, which the vast majority of professionals have, and find it so so dull when that's all there is - great technique and minimal or no feeling. I love when the dancers are really present in the moment and feeling and expressing the feelings, it takes you also to that feeling place like all great art. On a side note I love the sound of English being spoken with a German accent 🙌🏼

[@Nicole-kq3ui]

I really enjoyed all of your explanations and critiques. You’re so creative w your words and bringing your thoughts to life. This was amazing, insightful, and thoughtful. You should definitely go into the 2nd movement, and Eddy’s performance. You have so many interesting things to say, and I look forward to watching more. Thank you!!!

[@ngocvymaile2263]

Love your video ❤ I had some questions when first watching this livestream (as a non-musical), and your explanations help a lot. ^^ Really looking forward to your reaction to 2nd, 3rd mvt and Eddy part ❤

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I am looking forward to record the reactions. It is really interesting for me! Thank you so much for your comment!

[@glycine2090]

Thank you for the uploading (and it's very informative too)! What you said at the end also made me tear up a little bit 🥺🥺 If possible, I would love to see more of your views and thoughts on the second and third movements of the Mendelssohn (and maybe the bach double too). P/s: Happy new year!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you so much for watching and digging my opinion in the end of the video! I can't wait to react to the other movements and pieces from this performance as well!

[@jihanabelleslavin6386]

I really really like your overview and how you're approaching the music. I look forward to the next movements! :o)

[@sprachtherapie1243]

🌹Dear Simon, very good explanation🎶

[@jennlim2735]

Brett is professional violinist and he would appreciate the criticism, and I enjoy his play. A wrong note is ok the emotion connection he has with the piece makes up for it

[@threecat]

This is enjoyabla to watch. Thanks👍

[@rl7651]

Very interesting- one thing you mentioned though (around 24:35) about the down bow starting outward to allow the bow to be closer to the bridge- I think this is true in the upper half of the down bow but one can perhaps better maintain the contact point in the lower half of the bow by having the angle inward- you can still stay close to the bridge as needed. By the middle, the elbow joint can now move out and then it is easier to direct the bow closer to the bridge. Also, leaning into the upward curves of the bow with a vertical (rising) lean, can make the contact at the tip very solid.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I agree that going outwards too early can be more harmful than helpful. I wouldn't go as far as saying the opposite, but in general a straight bow is in my opinion most of the time the best choice to maintain a clean sound. The figure 8 pattern work for some violinsts well, for others it can be different. It is just an interesting idea and concept that we can experiment with. In the end our ears should be our main guidance.

[@1Q18-v4k]

I really really hope you do the Bach double too! That was my favorite part of the whole stream.

[@humblesparrow]

5.03 "BRO!" I laughed so hard. Brett was a pretty good sport to go along with the prank . . . jokes aside, thanks for the upload, it was very interesting!

[@macwinter7101]

This is very constructive, thank you for sharing!

[@hoanghaanhpham1783]

Thank you thank you thank you thank you!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@kylevaughn]

I love both of your Vids and I love violin thank you for uploading!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you so much! :)

[@patriciahayes5228]

Thank you for the analysis and the appreciation of Brett's (tremendous) offering. You named so well the emotion and joy for the music that happened that day. Small suggestion: I would suggest that rather than naming his facial expression as a "smirk" I would call it a "wince" or a "grimace". A smirk implies conceit or smug self-satisfaction. I hope you'll carry on with the other movements and with Eddy's piece.

[@susanbryant6516]

Thats the words I was trying to think of- wince and grimace, Thank you!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you! I will look up those words, as I am obviously not native in english I am thankful for such a help.

[@RMBlake007]

As someone who loves words, like Twoset loves music, I agree with your suggestion of the word "grimace" instead of smirk. As you explain, a smirk is usually seen on an accompanying pompous or haughty face...and that isn't Brett's attitude.

[@fairygodmomma2313]

Sounds Amazing! I plan on watching later, thank you!!!! 🎻Happy New Year!!!🎻

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you! It's a long video, I know... enjoy when you have time!

[@fairygodmomma2313]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation 😊👍👍👍👍

[@fairygodmomma2313]

@@SimonStreuffViolinEducation Caught my interest all the way through. World class indeed!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@saynotzai]

Okay this was great and honestly I think Brett would appreciate the free lesson, when you said cojones I lost it 😆 also when you said Eddy was a crazy dude, to be fair it was Brett's idea and Eddy basically agreed for the meme, but yeah it was an insane decision.

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

I didn't know that! Very interesting and a little bit sadistic from Brett :D

[@tomtomt1]

Thank you for uploading!

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you so much for the donation!

[@alexandremaurel9159]

Thanks for this video. I have to admit it changed my mind about this performance, thank you so much, so humbling 🙏🎈

[@oxoelfoxo]

changed your mind how?

[@debbielin2425]

What a sincere, constructive and informative review video you have made ! Great work! Subscribed! Love to see more videos from you! 😊

[@marshadirocca2550]

12:30 when you point out that part I literally was pointing to the screen being like YES BRETT and when you stopped to notice it I was so happy das my boi yesSIR YOU HIT THOSE NOTES

[@haotiankong6904]

Haha. I like how at one point you realized that you kept on saying "Eddy" and replaced it later with "Brett."

[@SimonStreuffViolinEducation]

Thank you for taking it with humor :)

[@machanrahan1074]

First video of yours I've seen. Loved it!! Subscribed. Thank you.