It was late afternoon on the promenade in Kaunas, Lithuania. I was taking a respite from the heat on a bench shaded by trees.
This young woman stopped at a bench across from me and a bit to my left. She was with another young woman, a young man and a child. The couple and child suggested songs for her to play and she played them.
She danced the bow across the strings with skill and talent and joy and love. Her songs filled the promenade and compelled me to stay seated even as I was long rested.
I have no idea what she was playing. It may have been classical pieces, it could have been local folk tunes. They each had a strong somber undercurrent that in turn filled me with sadness and joy.
I walked away.
After about a block the thrill of exploring was replaced by a longing to listen more.
I went back.
I listened.
I asked her, using motions and body language, if I could take her picture.
I tossed a 5-Lita coin (about $2 CDN) in the violin case and made myself go back to the hotel.
I am so grateful to this woman for sharing her talent.
Yes, she was earning money for it and so she should, but these few moments where I was fortunate enough to hear concert quality music on a lovely European afternoon will be with me for the rest of my life.
8 comments:
Tours are fine, but it's the interaction with the people who make the place what it is that matters most. This memory will stand out for you always, i'm sure, among all the travels you've taken.
I can almost hear the music! So glad you got to enjoy hearing her play.
Street performers are wonderful. Well, not all street performers--mimes are creepy.
I remember being in an apartment in Boston on a visit, in July, so the windows were open, and hearing piano music from nearby, and realizing with a little thrill that it wasn't a recording. I'm glad you got to see as well as hear your musician.
Mary Anne in Kentucky
A lovely moment in time!
Messymimi, so true. This is seared in my memory, and I am grateful.
Thanks, Crabby. Agree about mimes. They're like silent clowns. Ewwww.
That must be a lovely memory, Mary Anne.
It was, Bossy Betty.
What an enjoyable way to spend a little time.
Did it put you in mind of your dad, just a wee tiny bit?
Street performers of most kinds (have to agree with Crabby about the mimes) are so enjoyable. I'm glad you had these touching, memorable moments.
Yes, it was, Chris.
BL,not really as it was different music, but I can see why you'd ask.
Hilary, I agree about the performers.
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