In 2007, Washington Post reporter Gene Weingarten organised a social experiment with famous violinist Joshua Bell. Would one of the nation’s greatest violinists in street clothes be noticed in a D.C. Metro (underground) during rush hour? The result – almost no people stopping to listen and financially very poor – income for 43 minutes playing was $32.17.

Jump to 2014. Video published 4th October 2014. An experiment by the biggest newspaper of Russia “MK” has renowned accordionist Aidar Gainullin performing at a Moscow subway entrance.

We are pleased to report that the accordion in Moscow gathered a small audience, some making videos with their phones and slightly better financially – income 2,178 rubles ($55.13).

It appears that master musicians are definitely better off on the concert stage!
Enjoy the video of Aidar Gainullin’s music and the MK newspaper subway experiment!