Violinist Overcomes Bone Disease To Win NPR's Tiny Desk Contest
DULUTH, Minn. (WCCO) -- A talented violinist from Duluth is winning over musical hearts nationwide.
Gaelynn Lea has an unconventional approach to playing her instrument, born of necessity. She's the winner of National Public Radio's Tiny Desk contest, seeking out an original new sound and inspirational performer.
And as Bill Hudson shows us, Gaelynn is all that and more, especially when you see what's she's overcome.
There's a certain roughness in the beauty gripping Duluth's lakefront. A natural awe that lends refined inspiration to a unique musician.
"I think it's the way I connect with my spiritual self," Lea said.
Gaelynn Lea, 32, overcame a congenital disorder known as brittle bones disease. To play a violin, she has to hold it like a cello. But as you can hear, it doesn't matter!
"Once I figured out how to do it I just progressed at what pace I can. The way I grew up is the life I had, don't really compare it," she said.
Gaelynn was just selected the best among 6,100 entrants in NPR's Tiny Desk concert contest. She begins a national mini-tour next month.
"I feel happy where I am, and love performing and teaching, I have a good support network," she said.
But even more than the sounds she makes, a mix of classical violin and a gritty, folksy fiddle, is the profound message to her music.
It's a message she shares in her public speaking and performances. Taking what life gives you and turning it into perfection.
"Don't ever feel like you're not good enough because if you like it, that's what music is about," she said.
Gaelynn's Tiny Desk concert will air soon on NPR and then she'll go on a national tour through New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Portland, Oregon. She is scheduled to perform in the Twin Cities on May 14 at the 331 Club.
