This is what a violinist’s fingers look like after playing Shostakovich

20 January 2016, 11:16

These brutal photos show just how much pressure is put on the fingers during a particularly passionate performance of Shostakovich.

Violinist Frank Almond was playing Shostakovich’s Trio No. 2 in Milwaukee last night when a cut on his finger opened up, drenching his fingerboard in blood.

Here’s the full horror:

Eek etc.

Almond seemed unconcerned, however, and commented on Facebook: “Epic Shostakovich tonight. Yes, blood on the fingerboard. Worth it w. these guys. Thanks to everyone for coming out in the cold.”

He also told slippedisc: “We started the Shostakovich Trio and early on my fingerboard felt a little… sticky. We finished the first movement and there was blood all over my index finger (and the fingerboard).”