Karolina Protsenko’s Touching Imagine Duet Has an Unexpected Guest
Karolina Protsenko can hardly hide her excitement as she introduces Oscar Stembridge, a dear friend who has crossed the ocean to join her. At just 13, she’s about to perform with him for the first time, sharing music and a message of hope, peace, and love.
There’s an easy warmth between them as they welcome the people who have stopped to listen. Oscar says he’s happy to be there, and they invite everyone a little closer for their acoustic set. Then Karolina takes a moment to explain why the next song is close to her heart.
Oscar has come all the way from Sweden to play alongside Karolina, and her excitement gives their first performance together a lovely sense of occasion. His easygoing welcome adds to the warmth as they invite the audience closer.
These few moments make the duet feel personal before a note is played. Two young musicians are sharing something they’ve looked forward to, with everyone who has stopped to listen welcomed into it. Then Karolina explains why she has chosen Imagine, giving their time together a deeper meaning.
Before they play, Karolina speaks about COVID and the war in her homeland, Ukraine. She mentions the children who are suffering, including those who have lost their parents. Hearing a 13-year-old speak about children facing such loss makes the moment especially moving.
Her wish is simple: more hope, more peace, and more love. It gives their performance of John Lennon’s Imagine a deeply personal meaning. Karolina has welcomed the audience with excitement; now she gives them a heartfelt reason to listen.
After Karolina’s introduction, Imagine feels like a heartfelt wish she is sharing with everyone gathered around them. Her violin and Oscar’s voice give that wish a gentle warmth. Knowing why she chose the song makes their first performance together all the more moving.
The applause at the end is a lovely response to what they’ve shared. Karolina thanks the audience once more, bringing the moment back to the friendly welcome that began it. Two young musicians have come together across an ocean, and their music has given people a reason to pause and listen.
More from Karolina and Oscar
If this duet leaves you wanting to hear more, watch Karolina’s performance of ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All”. You can also explore Karolina’s YouTube channel, follow her on Facebook, or discover more of Oscar’s music on his YouTube channel.
