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 Read more about The Most Wonderful Thing[…]
By Tara Porter. On Friday, we went on a bus tour of Soweto, a group of 77 suburbs outside of Johannesburg (Soweto stands for SOuth WEstern TOwnships). A woman named Cindy who has lived there for her whole life led the tour and taught us aobut Soweto’s history. We drove through the middle class areas Read more about Tour of Soweto[…]
Well, the last few days have been rather hectic! They have also been amazing, life altering, and life affirming. Unfortunately, David and I have had a bit of difficulty with the internet. Late at night when we finally have a few minutes to post, the Wifi has been a bit problematic. This morning, I Read more about Here and There[…]
By Bailey Valint. Today started with wake-up calls and breakfast in the hotel. Afterwards we had rehearsal in a room in the hotel near the dining room and were greated by employees and other patrons applauding and even singing when we played the National Anthem. Next, we hopped on the bus for a guided tour Read more about Best Meal I’ve Ever Eaten. Sorry Mom![…]
By Danny Colucci. Today we ate at the Carnivore Restaurant in Johannesburg. The waiters served us meat off of giant spits. There was kudu (a type of African antelope), zebra, lamb, beef, chicken, chicken liver, and crocodile. All of it was delicious! And luckily only the chicken tasted like chicken. My only disappointment was that my Read more about Eating Like a Real Carnivore[…]
By Jimmy Berger. Going to the Buskaid workshop was by far the most fun experience yet! It reminded me of how every rehearsal we’ve been working on moving and being energetic, which Buskaid did amazing well; their exuberance was inspiring to everybody. It was clear that they loved playing with each other and loved the Read more about Buskaid: An Experience I’ll Never Forget[…]
By Elena deRosas & Heesung Kim. Playing at the U.S. Embassy was a huge honor. Although we were still groggy from our long night on the plane, we had fun. In our mini program, we played Trepack, On Wings of Song, Tanz, and Orange Blossom Special. Philomena and Elizabeth V. played their viola duet, Midnight Read more about Playing at the U.S. Embassy[…]
By Kelsey Killelea. We went to see the Buskaid music group which ended up being one of the best experiences I have ever had. The people there were unbelievably welcoming the whole time. They played with pride and enthusiam and not a single one seemed unhappy to be there. What struck me the most Read more about Rich with Pride[…]
Well, we finally arrived at our hotel near Johannesburg about 40 minutes or so ago! What a long and amazing day!! After we cleared customs we were met by Pieter and he led through the airport to our waiting bus and bus driver (also named Pieter). From the airport we drove immediately to the US Read more about 15-Flight Plus a Nine Hour Day on the Ground[…]
Saying goodbye at the Buffalo Airport seemed rather easy for the 22 students – their adventure of a lifetime – the performance tour to South Africa was about to begin. For the six adults traveling with them it was also pretty easy – we had a job to do. Distracted by the tasks of collecting Read more about You Say Goodbye and I say Hello[…]
