Lev and Djordje – magical musicians

On Friday, 15th June, Whiting Bay Hall held an audience that became more and more excited by amazing performances from Lev Atlas and Djordje Gajic on violin and accordion. Both are consummate professionals, in high demand as performers and academically respected as university tutors for advanced students – and both have the capacity to bring listeners to their feet through the exhilaration of the music they create. Djordje, playing a vast black accordion that can sound like anything from a church organ to a hurdy-gurdy, is an astonishing virtuoso, as is Lev, who when not doing countless other things is Principal Viola with Scottish Opera. Together, they went from Brahms to Villa Lobos to an enchanting folk tune called The Seagull, with much in between, each piece introduced with a relaxation and good humour that gave no sign of the exacting standards they demand of themselves. There was laughter as well as sheer wonder at the technical brilliance of the performances, coupled with moments of reflective thought as a tune wove its way into the mind. By the end of the evening, everyone was on their feet, shouting for more. Lev and Djordje are absolute magic.