So I am back from a wonderfull time in the U.S. I spent a week and a half visiting New York and Oberlin where I met up with old friends.
Before going off to the States I participated in the EUBO audition course (European Union Baroque orchestra - 28 to 31st March). It was a time of intense rehearsals and lessons, but strangely enough I was not tired while there. The music was so great and the directors so inspiring that it was only when I returned back to London that I collapsed in a chair! I made some really good friends an am happy to say that I got accepted.
I then had one day to pack and get ready to cross the Atlantic!
I arrived in New York on the 2nd of April and stayed at a really nice hotel by 168th Street. If anyone is interested about the 
details I can really recommend this place. I spent the first day walking around the southern tip of Manhattan, taking the ferry to Staten Island, seeing Chinatown, Little Italy, doing some shopping... (recurring theme it turned out). I ended the day by walking up Broadway from about 14th Street to 60th Street. My feet were very sore by then.
I flew out to Oberlin on the 4th. I was very lucky getting on an earlier plane than booked. I was picked up by friends in the airport and the next couple of days was spent seeing people and enjoying the spring! Yes Oberlin had wonderful sunshine during my entire stay as can be seen from the picture with my friends. I also saw all my teachers. It was good but strange to be back. I hope I will have reason to return.
details I can really recommend this place. I spent the first day walking around the southern tip of Manhattan, taking the ferry to Staten Island, seeing Chinatown, Little Italy, doing some shopping... (recurring theme it turned out). I ended the day by walking up Broadway from about 14th Street to 60th Street. My feet were very sore by then.
I flew out to Oberlin on the 4th. I was very lucky getting on an earlier plane than booked. I was picked up by friends in the airport and the next couple of days was spent seeing people and enjoying the spring! Yes Oberlin had wonderful sunshine during my entire stay as can be seen from the picture with my friends. I also saw all my teachers. It was good but strange to be back. I hope I will have reason to return.I flew back to N.Y. on the 8th and continued the sightseeing. I stayed with friends who come home late so I got to see the city by night. I discoveredthe joys of Central Park, walked up and down 5th Avenue, saw some friends, spent more money... I had a great time.
I returned to London on Sunday 12th with the worst jetlag ever - and succeded in having a lesson that same day and playing well considering I had not touched the instrument while in the U.S. Guess I needed the break. I am now into the final race with papers, concerts, exams...
I want to take the opportunity to thank all my friends in the U.S. - it was so good to see you all. I hope we can keep in touch.
