Fascinating.

The Washington Post conducted an experiment in the Washington Metro. Joshua Bell, one of the world’s most talented violinists, played some of the most intricate and complex music ever composed for the violin (Bach) on a $3.5 million Stradivarius. In the subway.

After 43 minutes, hardly anyone stopped to listen, and he only made a few dollars. Quite a stark contrast to selling out concert halls where seats cost $100+.

The Post wanted to examine what determines our appreciation of beauty…is it totally socially constructed, dictated? Can we appreciate a work of art that is not in the expected frame?

Check out the clip on YouTube below, and read the article here.