Here are a few of Jack Benny’s classic comedy routines featuring the violin. In his performances, Benny was know for his “bad” violin playing. In reality, he was a competent violinist and the owner of a Stradivarius. Through the years, Jack Benny’s guests included Isaac Stern and Jascha Heifetz. His show broke racial barriers in the United States with its human portrayal of the African-American butler, Rochester, as well as with guests such as Louis Armstrong and the Ink Spots.
This clip with Gisele MacKenzie offers a glimpse into the genius of Benny’s violin-centered comedy.
Here is a full episode, guest starring Isaac Stern:
It takes a good violinist to play badly… intentionally. I’d like to hear Jack play as I know he can… are there any recordings… clips… anything??
Thanks Timothy, for sharing!!
Jack used to give benefit concerts for orchestras all over the country. When I was a teenger I was lucky enough to attend one with the University of Miami Symphony. It was hilarious – as he fidgeted during the long opening tutti of the Beethoven concerto, then was caught “day-dreaming” when it was his actual entrance. He also sat in as concertmster for Capriccio Espagnole. He was a very funny and very great man.
Have you seen the one where he tries to play with Liberace? It is sooooo funny.
Thank you for suggesting this video, Jennifer. You can watch it here.
It takes a good violinist to play badly… intentionally. I’d like to hear Jack play as I know he can… are there any recordings… clips… anything??
Thanks Timothy, for sharing!!
Jack used to give benefit concerts for orchestras all over the country. When I was a teenger I was lucky enough to attend one with the University of Miami Symphony. It was hilarious – as he fidgeted during the long opening tutti of the Beethoven concerto, then was caught “day-dreaming” when it was his actual entrance. He also sat in as concertmster for Capriccio Espagnole. He was a very funny and very great man.