At Saturday night's performance of La La Land in Concert in Sydney, a 21-year-old audience member named Sterling Nasa took the stage after Oscar-winning composer and conductor Justin Hurwitz asked if there was an 'amazing sight reader' in the house. Addressing the 2,000-strong audience, Hurwitz made the call-out after the orchestra's lead keyboardist fell ill and had to leave during the interval.
An Unexpected Opportunity
Nasa suddenly found himself sitting at a keyboard he had never played before – a celeste – staring down a complex score he had never rehearsed, including an intricate synthesiser solo. Despite the daunting task, he rose to the occasion and delivered a flawless performance that earned him a standing ovation from the crowd.
Musical Background
Sterling Nasa, a university student and aspiring musician, has been playing piano since childhood. He attended the concert with friends and never expected to become part of the show. His quick thinking and exceptional sight-reading skills saved the performance from potential disaster.
The incident highlights the importance of skilled musicians in live performances and the power of community in the arts. Hurwitz praised Nasa's bravery and talent, calling him a 'hero' for stepping in under pressure. The audience's reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the moment as one of the most memorable parts of the evening.
