Masterclasses Brazil

A week of teaching in Bragança will remain engraved in memory. Before the trip, Brazil was largely unknown territory, but this musical experience with children of the Amazon region proved wonderful and rewarding. It meant learning to live in a different culture, and it became a real exchange of values and a new way of thinking. The children met there were remarkable. The best of the musical and pedagogical knowledge on offer was shared with them. Even though the teaching took place on electronic keyboards, the students of the Amazon Art Institute turned out to be captivated, talented and enthusiastic beyond all expectation. Gratitude is due to Aurimar, the translator, though music, as the international language, often spoke for itself. More was received than was given. What remains are wonderful memories filled with singing, Brazilian rhythms on the piano and the bright smiles of children. It was a privilege to be useful to the students of the Amazon Art Institute, accompanying them both in their education and in their concert. There is hope of returning to teach again in this place, where love is given so generously through music.