Barbra Streisand... and Other Musical Instruments

Barbra Streisand... and Other Musical Instruments is an enchanting 1973 musical television special featuring the incomparable talent of Barbra Streisand. Produced by long-time Streisand collaborator Martin Erlichman, the program introduces audiences to a captivating spectacle of song, style, and instrumental elegance.

Appearing as herself, Streisand enchants and delights with her remarkable voice, unique interpretation, and powerful stage presence. The program elevates itself above the common television musical specials of the time by incorporating the extraordinary musical mastery of Ray Charles, who lends his rich, soulful voice and piano skills to the performance.

As suggested by the title, Barbra Streisand… and Other Musical Instruments aims to showcase not just Streisand’s mighty vocal prowess, but the wide array of musical instruments from around the globe. Putting music at the forefront, the special is a testament to the global language of melody and rhythm.

This musical extravaganza was conceived as an extension of Streisand's album release of the same year, featuring songs composed by the renowned songwriting team of Alan and Marilyn Bergman. The special, directed by Dwight Hemion, blends elements of traditional concert footage with innovative visual effects.

With its international instrument theme, the audience is treated to the beautiful, diverse assortment of sounds from various parts of the world. The viewers are taken on a musical journey around the globe, including Indian sitars, Japanese kotos, African drums, and Australian didgeridoos, smoothly incorporated into Streisand’s performances. The instrumental variety infuses each song with a distinct and fascinating sound, providing an auditory treat.

Alongside a traditional orchestra, Barbra Streisand and Ray Charles share a stunning duet that celebrates the power and timelessness of music. This duet offers a testament to their unequalled vocal abilities while showcasing the depth and breadth of musical expression. The duo's palpable chemistry adds a further layer of enjoyment to the superbly executed musical special.

It's not just an auditory feast but also a visual delight. The costumes and sets reflect the cultural diversity that the musical instruments represent, providing a grand visual spectacle that complements the aural experience. One of the highlights is Streisand's standout costuming throughout the show, courtesy of designer Bob Mackie. His unique fashion creations are an additional treat, enhancing Streisand's captivating performances with their grandeur and attention to detail.

Beyond the music, a noteworthy aspect of the special is its content and structure. It features various vignettes interspersed with the musical performances. These vignettes, which include interviews with Streisand and behind-the-scenes footage, offer glimpses into the production's process and the thoughts and sentiments of its star. Streisand’s openness and charisma shine through in these segments, offering a deeper understanding of her as an artist and person.

In Barbra Streisand… and Other Musical Instruments, Streisand continues to demonstrate her influence and impact as an artist. It is a program that, while bearing her name in the title, humbly shares the spotlight with the instruments that accompany her. It is a testament to her appreciation for music in all its forms, and expresses her belief that every instrument has a unique voice that deserves to be heard.

It is an hour of music and delight that would entertain Streisand fans, Ray Charles followers, and music enthusiasts in general. For anyone interested in a unique musical experience that transcends cultural and geographic boundaries, Barbra Streisand... and Other Musical Instruments presents an unforgettable journey into the world of music and the exceptional talent of one of its brightest stars.

Despite being filmed nearly half a century ago, the program's enchanting performances, striking diversity and effortless charm make it a classic worth revisiting - a reminder of the timeless appeal of music, and the unique talent of Barbra Streisand.