It was the stuff that dreams are made of. A small, 350-seat theater with acoustics designed by engineering legend Cyril M. Harris. A world-renowned violinist and pianist at the absolute pinnacle of their crafts. A crowd holding their breath to hear the nuance in every shimmering note that resonated throughout the hall.
On October 10, 2024, living legend Joshua Bell performed a once-in-a-lifetime benefit concert at Millersville University’s Ware Center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in support of the Arts at Millersville and its vital community programming. Through ticket sales and donations, the event raised over $140,000 to support youth and community outreach programs, subsidized tickets for low-income families, accessibility services, school shows, and master classes. Proceeds from the event will also support critical enhancements to the Ware Center that will enable the venue to continue serving as a community arts hub, allowing access to the arts for everyone and a platform for underserved artists to make their voices heard.
Performing works by Mozart, Schubert, and Fauré, Joshua Bell and Peter Dugan captivated audiences for close to two hours.
“This is a real treat for me, to play in a venue this intimate,” said Bell. “It’s a real privilege.”
Bell moved seamlessly through his pre-announced repertoire, but in a poignant moment during his encore, he asked for the audience’s indulgence.
“If you’ll allow me, I’d like to dedicate this number to a dear friend who died this morning,” he said, introducing Chopin’s Nocturne in C Sharp Minor. Bell’s record producer of 20 years, Adam Abeshouse, died Thursday morning after a brief battle with cancer. Two weeks ago, Bell, Dugan, and a dozen other renowned musicians gathered at Abeshouse’s bedside to perform one last private concert for him.
Bell’s final encore was the violin showpiece “Gypsy Airs” by Pablo de Sarasate, which the violinist said he played at his first-ever full-length concert at age twelve. Listening to the virtuosic song, it is difficult to imagine how a child could ever tackle such a piece—but it was a testament to Bell’s incredible talent, which has only grown throughout the years.
Guests enjoyed an intimate meet and greet with Joshua Bell and Peter Dugan after the performance, including young musicians in training representing the Lancaster nonprofit Music for Everyone. It was a night that no one present will be quick to forget.
