Music has been an essential part of my daily life since I was little. I still can’t go a day without singing or listening to music! It is something that has built an important foundation of my life. It helps me release tension and fulfills me emotionally. It is also an escape from reality or actually becomes the reality. Music allows me to give attention to the exact moment that I am in and to express myself in ways that words cannot.
I’m excited that this abroad program is focusing on exploring a wide range of cultural values, traditions, and history, specifically through the lens of music. Among other events, I’m looking forward to witnessing the New Year’s unique tradition of playing Beethoven’s 9th symphony in the Great Hall in Vienna, Austria and to view the city from St Stephen Cathedral’s tallest tower. Furthermore, I’m excited to identify and experience the multicultural differences and richness every country has to offer. I’m so excited to move from the theoretical to experiencing it in real life at its best quality!
One of our class sessions made me realize that it would be such a tragedy to witness life without music because music plays an essential role in people’s lives all around the world. It has an immense impact on day-to-day well-being as it is one of the most powerful ways to express yourself and to bond nations!