Neighbor Notes

Jose demonstrates vibrato exercise. 

Venezuela and Saint Lucia are neighbors. These two countries share a common history and cultural identity, and as far back as 200 years, fought together during the Venezuelan Revolution.  When Saint Lucia gained her independence from the British in 1979, Venezuela set up an embassy on the island and has been a helpful neighbor ever since. When a hurricane destroyed bridges, Venezuela sent materials.  When negotiating oil export, Venezuela seeks deals with Saint Lucia.  When Venezuela exports their socialist music method, El Systema, the embassy discharges tutors to the Saint Lucia School of Music.

Two weeks ago, six teachers ages 19-24 arrived to assist in music education at the Saint Lucia School of Music. These rigorous, passionate young people are products of a government-run after school program, and they arrive eager to share their knowledge and pedagogy with their neighbors.

New energy for Chamber Orchestra!

Suddenly the sleepy campus is transformed! Music sessions are underway inside, outside and on the paths in between.  French horn, oboe and double bass emerge from closets and broken instruments are repaired and put into service.