Even though it will take weeks to process and decompress from the amazing week that we had here, I am just relieved on the success of the culminating experience we got to share with everyone yesterday. With many thanks to Zsoka and Peter and Ana, and their commitment to excellence, the strength they have established in their young musicians is incredible, and we could not have pulled this off without their preparation. After finally having a chance to put all the pieces together in the morning, we got to share and truly embrace the Koolulam experience when we got to teach the audience of 1st through 4th graders, and many adults, their part of the song. 
The room was buzzing when we all sang “OH” on a D concert. You could feel the energy and the anticipation for what was coming next. After some call and response, the entire room was singing back. When they would get to the end of the phrase and sing, “This is Me” it gave me chills, and then to have them all say it in Hungarian, “Ez Vagyok En!” was incredible! Then out of complete silence came the beautiful introduction from the flutes and violin, and then the musical journey unfolded into a wonderful celebration, embracing one of the themes of the week of self-identity and being proud of you are! Immediately following the performance I had an overwhelming sense of relief but at the same time wanted to do it again and again! All of the work that everyone put into this from the minute Alan came over to me in the auditorium in Las Vegas, to yesterday, culminated into a quick, four-minute experience, and I didn’t want it to end. What has been described as my “moonshot” was done in an instant. This shared experience just goes to prove how important the arts are in celebrating diversity and acceptance. The room was completely “one” even though we were many. Music truly brings people together and I am grateful it has brought us all together here in Hungary. After the jetlag subsides next week I will be able to reflect more on the amazing things we shared, and on the amazing things we have to look forward to ahead of us. The passion that our Adelson teachers along 
with our Hungarian partners have for our students is palpable, and quadruple that with the passion and dedication that Alan and Glynis have for the future of these young people, is beyond the moon.
