By Elizabeth Vennari. The most wonderful thing about South Africa is the fact that the people are so friendly. At the rehearsal with the South African Suzuki groups, the stage quickly became a mass of enthusiastic chatter and playing. As the group on stage got bigger and bigger, we had the opportunity to meet each student a few at a time, rather than immediately being swarmed with far too many strangers to interact with.
I went to photograph some of the younger musicians, who were standing outside waiting for their turn to play. Although a few children were initially shy, everyone eventually opened up enough to respond to my questions and carry on lively conversations. Our new friends stayed with us the whole day, joining us for the drum circle, eating dinner with us, and then finally performing with us at the end of the evening. Without a doubt, I can say that I have worked with the friendliest people I’ve ever met, and our trip is much more enjoyable than any one of us had ever expected.
I love that you call them your “new friends”. Dr. Suzuki would be proud!
I’m sure everyone had a time to remember – the music, the wild animals, the food, and so many other unique experiences that you will find nowhere else in the world. I think this is a time that all of you will cherish for the rest of of your lives, and you will never forget. Live on Buffalo Suzuki Strings), the great country of South Africa, and every one of you always carry o\n your music, may your hard-earned amazing music live forever!:
WHERE’S THE SPAM???