Greetings from Buenos Aires, Argentina! All is going well here - plenty of adventures while traveling but that's what it's all about, right? Amazing what a sense of humor, communicating through gestures (and Google Translate), embracing flexibility, smiling with your eyes and soul, and learning to be vulnerable (even when it's scary and you're a compulsive over-thinker/planner) can do!
It has been a while since I've had a less regimented trip/tour like this, and I'm reminded that it's very humbling to be in the situation of not knowing a language and culture, or having the independence to figure things out with ease (no private car, and no internet access on my phone except when I have wifi access). It's not always easy (spent 2 hours trying to get a public transit card today!) but once you embrace the process of learning, your brain starts to awaken to what it means to learn new skills... and maybe a few new words.
As always, I enjoy learning about the people, history, culture, and food, and there is much to absorb here. A highlight? Argentina is now in the finals of the FIFA World Cup. On my flight from JFK to Buenos Aires the entire aircraft (including a pilot) was watching the game at the gate. I swear they delayed our flight specifically so that they could continue to watch it. When the first goal was scored for Argentina, the cheers had so much resonance, I could feel the vibrations. When we were on the plane, waiting (and watching) another goal was scored, and the entire plane broke out into... song. What an interesting thing - to have sports AND music unite strangers together. Mid-flight, the pilot announced Argentina's victory, and again, after a round of applause, strangers singing together.
My mother and I have had one performance and a masterclass so far (more to come this weekend), and we are delighted to have this opportunity. It is also very special for me to spend time with my parents for this journey.
One quick story: yesterday, we were walking on a street and saw a music store. My Dad insisted that we go in. Those of you who have met him know that he has a strong personality, so it would be futile to disagree (not worth the effort!) and I figured that it's always interesting to see instruments. I spotted a row of electric pianos by Yamaha, Kawai, Korg, and Roland, and proceeded to try them (a chromatic scale on each to try their weight and tone). A sales associate came over to help and I explained that I was just curious to try them - he pointed me in the direction of the one that he considered the best, and so I walked over to give it a try. I tried a couple pieces and then thought I'd enjoy sharing a holiday favorite: George Winston's version of Carol of the Bells (which a few of my high school and adult students have played - Norwood and Manon are playing it this year!). As I played, a woman came closer and stood by me. When I finished, I looked up and she had tears streaming down her face. She didn't speak English at all and my Spanish (despite trying to cram in the few days here, lol) is pretty much nonexistent, so we used Google Translate. She shared with me that this musical performance was magical and meant so much to her. I thought of one more quick piece I could play, and selected "Adventure of the Planets" (a few of you have played this one as well!). I shared with her only the title and told her that it is my gift to her. I didn't dare look up until the end. At this point, she was sobbing. She asked for my phone. A moment later and it was returned to me with the text: "Hoy el universo me regalo parte de tu arte y estoy tan agradecida." ("Today the universe gave me part of your art and I am so grateful").
We are so lucky to pursue, share, explore, and live something so special. I am grateful to be part of each of your musical journeys, and I am grateful for your support as I continue to pursue mine!
With best wishes, greetings, and much love,
Elizabeth
