Anecdotes of Great Musicians/Anecdote 69
69.—ANOTHER WAY.
Equally satisfactory in its results was the method of voice production applied by a band of Mexican freebooters to Garcia, another great tenor, but of modern times. One of the semi-annual revolutions taking place during Garcia's concert tour in Mexico, he was making his way toward the coast to sail for more peaceful climes. But before he could reach Vera Cruz he was attacked by a wandering band of Mexicans and relieved of his impedimenta even to the most of his wardrobe. The search for valuables in his baggage soon revealed a quantity of music, and it came to light that the captive was a singer.
Not satisfied with their tangible booty, the robbers demanded a song. Garcia respectfully declined. More demands, this time with fervor, con spirito, as it were. Garcia absolutely refused. But repeated encores being accompanied by threatening gestures, a knowledge that his audience would not hesitate to put their threats into execution led the great tenor to accede to their wishes. The brigands gave him an elevated position and gathered around ready to pass judgment on his performance. It is well known to musicians that a free audience always considers itself most free to criticize a performance. So it was in this case; each auditor had, as it were, a complimentary ticket.
Garcia, on first trial, was perhaps justified in feeling somewhat of stage fright, so much, in fact, that his song was an abject failure. Even these rough Mexicans hissed him. This was unusual treatment for the tenor. He was used to rapturous applause, not hisses. Spurred by the insult he burst forth in such a vocal effort as might have graced the best concert hall. Derision had conquered where threats had failed. Charmed by his voice and his use of it, the robbers not only returned money and clothing, but escorted him far on his journey that he might be saved a repetition of this experience.