Next time you see a busker, do pay special attention, it could be someone world famous playing incognito.

The Washington Post carried out an experiment with world famous violinist Joshua Bell serenading commuters in a metro station near government offices. His performance normally sends shivers down the spines of his appreciate audiences. But, out of context, would his virtuoso performance attract the same kind of recognition?

Joshua , who plays to packed concert hall, discovered what it felt like to be ignored. Out of 1,097 people who passed by, only seven stopped and 27 gave money totalling $32. 

This intriguing and fascinating report describes what happened when he played six classical pieces, how children were drawn to his music rather than adults, but were hurried along by their parents. You can hear him playing his pieces; how anyone could have ignored Ave Maria I do not know, I have it listed to be played at my funeral

Would you have been too busy to notice that this was no ordinary busker?  How many people stop for buskers and give throw them some some spare cash? Actually, buskers do tend to be quiet talented in Cambridge and draw in the crowds – and lots of money. I shall look out for Joshua, just in case he repeats the experiment my nearby city, there’s a good pitch outside Boots.

It makes me wonder ….

What is this life if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

— from “Leisure,” by W.H. Davies

Hat tip: Geoff.