Czech violinist Pavel Šporcl experienced a mishap while performing the Mendelssohn concerto with the Mlada Boleslav Chamber Orchestra. The conductor’s baton inadvertently struck Šporcl’s prized blue violin, causing it to slip from his hands.
In a quick reaction, Šporcl used his leg to prevent the violin from hitting the floor. He then picked up the instrument and continued playing, much to the conductor’s evident relief.
Šporcl is currently in Jerusalem, stepping in for Victoria Mullova to perform the Beethoven concerto with his signature blue violin, crafted by Prague luthier Jan Spidlen.