From Performances with Balthazar to Crowds of Hundreds: The Smallest and Largest Audiences I Have Played For

As an artist, from classic guitar performances to puppet shows, the range of audience sizes I've played for has been quite diverse. Herein, I recount my experiences with some of the smallest and largest audiences, highlighting the various venues and events where my talents were showcased.

The Smallest': Balthazar and a Kindergarten Group

Smallest Audience: Balthazar, the Dalmatian Dog

One of the most memorable performances was with my canine companion, Balthazar. A beautiful Dalmatian, Balthazar was a connoisseur of classical music. He would often accompany me, alerting me with 'funny faces' whenever I made a mistake. Occasionally, I made mistakes on purpose just to see his reaction, as he seemed genuinely interested in my performance.

The Kindergarten Group

A smaller audience, but one that left a lasting impression, was a kindergarten group. During a presentation, I showcased a range of plucked-string instruments, including a kantele, lute, bouzouki, mandolin, balalaika, ukulele, and finally, my classical guitar. I played an excerpt from Bach's Andante movement from his Violin Sonata No. 2 in A minor, BWV 1003. Despite the young age of the audience, they listened intently, even asking for an encore. This performance is one of my most cherished memories.

The Largest Audiences

Festivals and Theater Performances

Thousands and More: Festivals and Theater Performances

While the performances at large-scale events like festivals do not count as a main attraction, I have played to audiences of thousands. These experiences are both exhilarating and challenging, as it's crucial to manage the energy and maintain the performance's integrity across several shows.

Classical Guitar Shows

Years of Experience, Smaller Shows

While I have performed in vast concert halls, my smallest classical guitar shows often had less than 100 audience members. Occasionally, I played for only 173 people—a combination of kids and adults—making it a particularly unique experience. For solo performances, I have played for two or three hundred people, often as part of an ensemble or orchestra.

Theater and Puppet Shows

Audiences of 800-1000 in Theaters

In theaters with auditoriums capable of seating 800-1000 people, playing as an actor, musician, or puppeteer is a different experience altogether. These performances often demand a different level of energy and presence. Despite the challenge, these venues contribute significantly to the artistic experience.

Lessons Learned from the Smallest and Largest Audiences

Lessons from Balthazar to the Crowd

Each audience, regardless of size, teaches me something valuable. Balthazar's reactions during my performance with him reminded me of the importance of engaging every audience, even those who might not be outwardly vocal. Similarly, the attention of the kindergarten group taught me that music has a universal language that translates beyond age and experience.

From Professional Policies to Heartfelt Comments

The smallest performances often come with their own set of challenges. State-funded puppet theaters, for instance, had a policy of playing for at least ten audience members. When this limit was not met, performances had to be canceled, ensuring a minimum number of participants. Even in the smallest settings, the connection with the audience is paramount.

The Audience is Always Important

Whether it's the smallest group playing an instrument or the largest audience at a festival, the essence of performing lies in the connection with the audience. From Balthazar's attentive ears to the fascinated eyes of kindergarteners, each performance is a unique experience that leaves a mark on both the artist and the audience.