The Role of the Performer: The Piano Guys
When most people think about music, they usually focus on the artist who wrote the song. But honestly, performers are just as important. They’re the ones who actually bring the music to life and make it something people can connect with. A really good example of this is The Piano Guys. They take already existing songs and turn them into something completely different by mixing classical instruments with modern music.
The Piano Guys are from Utah, and they are made up of pianist Jon Schmidt, cellist Steven Sharp Nelson, producer Al van der Beek, and videographer Paul Anderson. They first started out making videos in a piano store, but once they began posting on YouTube, they blew up pretty quickly. What makes them stand out is how they mix classical music with pop songs and add really cinematic videos. Instead of just playing music, they turn it into a full experience, which is a big reason why they’ve gotten so popular.
When researching this group, these were two pieces that they have performed that I enjoyed listening too. One is called A Thousand Years (The Piano Guys Version), and the second, is Cello Wars. The first piece, A Thousand Years, is a song that was original composed by Christina Perri in 2011, and then the Piano Guys released their version in 2012 in the United States. While listening to and analyzing this song, one thing that really stands out to me is the dynamics. It starts off really soft and slowly builds, which makes it feel more emotional. The way they control the volume makes the song feel very meaningful instead of just sounding like a normal cover. Another important element is texture. The piano plays the background chords while the cello carries the melody, which makes the song feel layered and full. It’s simple, but it works really well.
Link to the video: A Thousand Years by The Piano Guys
The second piece, Cello Wars, is a song that is inspired by the music from the "Star Wars" movie series, the music by John Williams. The Piano Boys came out with this song in 2011, depicting a lightsabor dual through the playing of the Cello. This song is basically the opposite vibe of the first piece of music. The rhythm is really fast and intense, which fits the Star Wars theme. It keeps the energy high the whole time. Also, the timbre is really interesting because they use the cello in a bunch of different ways. It’s not just one sound—they pluck it, bow it aggressively, and layer multiple parts together. It shows how versatile the instrument actually is.
Link to the video: Cello Wars by The Piano Guys
Personally, I think The Piano Guys are very interesting performing group. I had seen a couple of their songs before this but now having the chance to really research them and listen intently to their songs, I can see how talented the group is and why their work is so successful. Even if you already know the original song, they make it feel different. I like how they use dynamics and instruments to change the mood of a song without completely losing what made it good in the first place. Also, their videos make a big difference. It’s not just about listening—it’s something you actually want to watch too. That makes their performances way more engaging compared to just hearing a regular cover.
Overall, The Piano Guys show why performers matter so much in music. They take songs that already exist and turn them into something new and interesting. By mixing classical and modern styles, they’ve created their own lane and helped more people appreciate instruments like the piano and cello.
Works Cited
I appreciated the restrained use of pitch in the beginning of A Thousand Years. It helped the song to feel cozier and more personal. Also, the timbre of the cello is pleasantly quiet, almost pleading. It made me feel sad and nostalgic. I'm impressed they can keep the tenderness of the song apparent, too, even when, as you say, the dynamics shift to loud. I found it interesting too how the last notes of the song leave it unresolved, as if the performers wanted us to keep thinking even after the music ends. These performers are very good at infusing mood into their songs.
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I enjoyed reading how you described the mood with each of the songs, and how they contrast so much when you listen to both of them. I really like how creative they went with Cello Wars by not just making it a standard musical performance like A Thousand Years, but taking it to the next level with using their bows as lightsabers to depict an actual duel with cool visuals to give you that Star Wars vibe.
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