Multi-award winning musician Karine Polwart shares an emotional story of organizing a music festival for a terminally ill neighbor during lockdown. The experience leads her to reevaluate her work and focus on deeper connections and collaborations in her music.
Music creates connections and joy even in difficult times.
Collaboration and shared experiences enrich the impact of artistic work.
Deep dives
Al Beck's Gift of Music
Through the creation of Bextival, Al Beck, terminally ill and nearing the end of his life, shares his favorite songs and their significance with friends and family. This musical event, filled with reminiscences and intimate performances, brings joy and connection to all involved, highlighting the power of music to unite and uplift even in difficult times.
The Emotional Impact of Bextival
As Corinne and Pippa perform at Bextival, the weight of the occasion transitions into a heartfelt celebration, where shared songs and memories create a sense of community and nostalgia. The event offers a mix of emotions, from weird beginnings to poignant moments, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on Al and his family, reflected in their cherished memories and heartfelt gratitude.
A Farewell Through Music
Following Al's passing, his family expresses deep appreciation for the musical gift of Bextival. The recording of the event becomes a treasured keepsake, providing comfort and connection during their mourning. Amidst their grief, they invite Corinne to sing at Al's funeral, emphasizing the profound influence of music in honoring his life and legacy.
1.
A Heartfelt Back Garden Music Festival during Lockdown
In the depths of lockdown during 2020 multi-award winning musician Karine Polwart offered to play a private gig for neighbour and local legend Al Beck just weeks before he would die from cancer.
The resulting correspondence became an unexpectedly rewarding collaboration as they shared their love of music through Al's choice of songs. In this final essay recounts the night of "Beckstival" and how this joyous night tinged with sadness made her reassess the scale and nature of her work.
"More depth, less breadth. More local, less scattered. More conversational, less performative. And always, always more collaborative and connective."
Written and Presented by Karine Polwart
Producer by Peter McManus
Mixed by Sean Mullervy
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