I’ve always loved both the cello and piano. The piano is the hero for its versatility and ability to manifest any little ditty into a masterpiece. It is a universal instrument that can give life and replicate any song. Seriously. From metal to k-pop and beyond, tinkering with the keys of a piano has given birth to some of the most incredible songs, classical and pop, ever created. Next up, the cello. It’s low, and although usually plays the harmony and not melody, is a stringed instrument that has so much color and variety, and in this performance, gets to play both voices!
Now, let’s take these two fabulous instruments and get them together to play an all-time favorite classic, performed by two incredible and classically trained musicians, — needless to say, we’ve got ourselves a party!
Brooklyn Duo is a classical crossover ensemble, comprising of husband and wife Marnie and Patrick Laird, on the piano and cello, respectively. The talented couple got their first break when they arranged and recorded Shakira’s “Empire” and John Legend’s “All of Me.” But, now they have a new song in store, and it’s chock full of emotion and sounds divine.
This time around, they’ve taken Disturbed’s slow rock version of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sound of Silence” and have reimagined it to be a thing of beauty and joy! Marnie and Patrick made sure to pay tribute to both versions of the song, making for a haunting and eerie rendition.
The video opens to Marnie softly and poetically playing on the baby grand piano, before Patrick picks up his bow and starts to play the very low sounding melody. What’s so neat to notice about Brooklyn Duo’s arrangement is how they split the harmony. Both the piano and cello get a chance to play the harmony and melody, adding to the richness of the song, changing up the dynamic and making for a truly remarkable arrangement. It also helps that this is one of their favorite songs, so you can hear the passion and love poured into their performance. It’s spooky yet brilliant, and won’t disappoint!
Renditions come in so many different forms, and it’s no doubt that numerous performers have redone “Sound of Silence.” But, to have it done this way is so unique — it might just be one of my favorites!
Click below to see these two give it all they got in a brilliant cover of a beloved classic.
