Bell returns with Cleveland Orchestra

As the lights dimmed and the audience filling the IU Auditorium grew silent, conductor Franz Welser-Möst and violinist and IU alumnus Joshua Bell took the stage. After the applause ceased, with the flick of Welser-Möst’s wrist, the Cleveland Orchestra’s performance took off.

The orchestra, which returned to the auditorium in 2011 after decades without a performance, performed works from legendary composers Ludwig Van Beethoven and Hector Berlioz. Bell accompanied the orchestra for their Beethoven piece as a featured soloist.

IU Auditorium Director Doug Booher said the orchestra invited Bell to perform with them, and the auditorium could not be happier to welcome Bell back.

“Josh’s ability to connect with the audience through his performance and his thoughtful interpretation of the work combine with his long history as a Bloomington native and IU alum to make for the perfect soloist for this event,” Booher said.

Bell’s connection with the piece as well as the ensemble he performed with were evident. Standing beside Welser-Möst, Bell hardly stood still as he played through his solos. 

The audience was clearly pleased to see Bell, a graduate of the Jacobs School of Music, as he received rousing applause when recognized at the end of the Beethoven piece.

The orchestra and Bell’s acclaim attracted students and Bloomington residents of all ages to the show. First year master’s student in flute performance Sarah Shin had never seen the Cleveland Orchestra before but was drawn to their performance by the reputation of being, as she said, “an awesome orchestra.”

Bloomington resident Lou Moyr, who had seen both Bell and the Cleveland Orchestra on many occasions before, said her love of symphonies brought her to the show.

“We’re so lucky to live in Bloomington where we can hear these symphonies,” Moyr said.

Booher said it’s the high quality of the Cleveland Orchestra and their work that makes their performances truly memorable.

“When the warmth of their precise yet spirited performance fills the Auditorium, you are transported to a wonderful place,” he said.