There are times when I think the world has lost its way. Then I see something like this

[amerikat]

that restores my faith that against all odds people come through. They just keep moving forward against
all obstacles. A symphony orchestra in war torn Congo.

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7404678n&tag=contentMain;contentAux

Sorry about the commercial at the beginning. I have no control over that.

[Honeycombe8]

1. I saw that. Wasn't that uplifting? It gave me a lump in the ol' throat.

What beauty in the midst of poverty and hardship. And how talented they are!

I just wish there were a way for them to get paid, for them to get a good economy going. I guess their govt is corrupt? I don't know why the people there are so poor.

[amerikat]

2. Poor due to war and corruption.

But I see signs that the world is changing. I can feel it in fact.

[snacker]

3. That was a beautiful and touching story. n/t

[amerikat]

6. Give it a kick. People need to see this

[amerikat]

4. I'll kick it myself. Kick

[MuseRider]

5. Amazing, thank you for posting this.

I have tears in my eyes.

The 9th is a very strenuous, difficult, exhausting, complicated piece. I say Bravo, they did a wonderful job.

I have to drive 20 minutes to my rehearsals and I get paid. Not sure I could do that walk and still play

Music has always been my answer. I wish more people in the world could find what it offers, especially in places like that.

[amerikat]

7. Music was always a refuge for me. I have learned much from listening.

I don't play an instrument. Perhaps in a another life time. Not learning an instrument
is something I regret every day of my life. I look up to folks that can play and better yet
write/compose a song.

[panader0]

8. It's not too late to learn

I have played guitar for over 40 years but I am still learning new things on different instruments. Mandolin, keyboards,trumpet, drums. I would recommend an electronic keyboard to start. They have instructions built in, along with a drum machine and every tone you can imagine. I guarantee you will be smiling with your very first effort. Do it!

[amerikat]

11. Thank you for the vote of confidence.

Guitar or banjo or fiddle would be my choice. Many local teachers around.
It's a very musical area.

[MuseRider]

10. You can always learn.

Always. I mean that. Learning something is not hard, getting good at it is. There is much joy in the process.

Don't live with that regret. Find something you can get a hold of and start. You can do it even without lessons although lessons would help a great deal. Do it! I mean it. It feels so wonderful.

[amerikat]

12. Many great teachers in my neck of the musical woods.

Guitar, fiddle or banjo would suit me fine. Any thought on what a 57 year old should try first?

[MuseRider]

14. Whatever tickles your fancy the most.

I have heard that banjo is pretty difficult but maybe starting out on it is not a big deal. Cool instrument, very fun music.

Great choices Go for it. I am a year older than you are and have been playing since I was 6. I still hit a masters class whenever I get a chance and ask questions, lots of them from people who are better than I will ever be.

Make yourself happy.

[Aristus]

9. I don't have the words...

That was overwhelming...

[amerikat]

13. I will never whine about my situation ever again!

These people are a true inspiration to me and you and I hope to millions of us.

[sonias]

15. Awesome!

Thanks for that. What a joy indeed!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

16. Wasn't that a wonderful story?

I think I'll stop whining about my cheap piano now...

[raouldukelives]

17. Beautiful!

Thanks for this!

[Lucky Luciano]

18. Mark for later. nt

[JNelson6563]

19. WOW!

Nothing short of awesome! Thanks for posting that, made my day!

Julie