My first travel experience as a musician was with the high school band just a few weeks after my freshman year. We were invited to perform in the U.S.S.R. I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been for my parents to allow me to go to a communist country at the age of 15. I fell in love with the architecture, but mostly I fell for the people. I was blown away by how generous the Soviet teenagers were. The people and the architecture are still two of the most poignant parts of my journeys, but now that my palate has matured, food is up on that list too. Traveling as a musician offers the benefit of being integrated into a culture as soon as you arrive. Usually, upon arriving in a destination, we either meet the promoter at our place of lodging, or at the venue we’ll be performing in. Being a somewhat shy traveler, this is helpful because there is an instant musical connection with a local, even if language is a challenge. Join me as I take Travel Tracks in a new direction by documenting my musical and artistic experiences on the road, on the rail, and through the skies. (photo credit: Jessica Sweet)
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