David Gilmour and Street Musician Create Unforgettable Performance in Venice’s St Mark’s Square
David Gilmour, the legendary Pink Floyd guitarist, stepped in to fill the void left by Syd Barrett, the band’s original frontman, whose challenges with mental health and substance abuse led to his departure in 1968. Gilmour’s arrival marked a new era for the band, helping to shape their distinctive sound and contributing to some of their most iconic albums. One such tribute to Barrett is “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” from their 1975 album “Wish You Were Here.” This track, an enduring homage, features a unique wine glass sequence recorded in 1971, showcasing Pink Floyd’s innovative musical approach.
This brings us to a remarkable moment in Venice in 2006, captured in the following video. While exploring Venice on 11 August 2006, the day before his final performance in St Mark’s Square, Gilmour, alongside his wife Polly Samson, stumbled upon Igor Sklyarov, a street musician masterfully playing a glass harp. The ethereal sound of the glass harp immediately caught their attention. Sklyarov’s skill and the hauntingly beautiful music he produced were so compelling that Gilmour, encouraged by Samson, felt an irresistible urge to incorporate this unique talent into his concert.
Impressed by Sklyarov’s skill, Gilmour approached him with an unusual proposition. He invited the busker to join him on stage for the upcoming concert in St Mark’s Square. Despite Sklyarov’s initial unfamiliarity with Gilmour, he agreed, not fully realizing the magnitude of the opportunity being presented to him. This impromptu collaboration was a testament to Gilmour’s openness to new musical experiences and his appreciation for genuine talent.
The following day, on 12 August 2006, Sklyarov found himself sharing the stage with one of rock music’s legends. The performance was part of Gilmour’s “On an Island” tour, promoting his solo album released earlier that year. The tour had already seen numerous sold-out shows and critical acclaim, but this particular concert in Venice was set to be extraordinary, with the historic St Mark’s Square providing a majestic backdrop.
As the evening unfolded, the rain began to fall, creating a dramatic atmosphere. However, the inclement weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of the audience, who had gathered in large numbers to witness the performance. Gilmour and his band, joined by Sklyarov, took to the stage, ready to deliver an unforgettable rendition of “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.” The unique sound of the glass harp added a new dimension to the song, enhancing its ethereal quality and paying a fitting tribute to Barrett.
The camera captured poignant moments throughout the performance, with Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones visibly moved. The sight of Robert Plant shedding a tear was a powerful testament to the emotional depth of the performance and the enduring legacy of the song. The addition of a full choir and orchestra towards the end of the piece brought layers of grandeur, creating a truly epic rendition that resonated deeply with everyone present.
The collaboration between Gilmour and Sklyarov might have extended to more performances had they met earlier during Gilmour’s stay in Venice. Nevertheless, the impact of that one night was profound. For Sklyarov, it was an unforgettable experience that catapulted him from the streets of Venice to the world stage. For Gilmour, it was an opportunity to blend his music with new and unique elements, enriching the performance and creating a memorable event for his fans.
The concert on 12 August 2006, despite the persistent rain, drew a large crowd eager to witness Gilmour’s performance. The audience’s enthusiasm and the sheer power of the music created a magical night, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. This remarkable event highlighted the universal language of music, bringing together artists from different backgrounds to create something truly special.
