After a long day of travel, we visited a wonderful Kosher Restaurant where we met our partner teachers. It was great to finally put faces to the many emails that we have shared. Over a wonderful traditional Hungarian meal, we got comfortable talking about the challenges ahead and got excited for the process to begin the following morning. Although Jet-lagged, the first morning turned into a wonderful time getting introduced to the school, and a quick lesson in the complicated world of being Jewish in Hungary. This brought us right up to the very first class of the day which I found a very curious group of 10th graders. Most were willing and eager to share in the conversation, and they were very good with stretching their comfort zone and try something unconventional. I look forward to further rehearsal with them in the afternoon tomorrow. After accidentally letting them out 5 minutes early, I moved downstairs to the band area where it was very great to hear the song come together. I was really impressed with the sight-reading talent of the Naim Band and how easily the two bands played together. I was also impressed with the steady tempo that the Jack band was providing the group. It was fun to rehearse and realize there were some different terminology for certain musical expressions, so it was a great learning experience for myself as well as the students! After lunch Peti (Peter) showed me the performance space where I immediately got excited for how to stage the performers and began visualizing some changes to a visual project that might accompany the live performance. To top all that off we were immersed in rich Jewish culture with a tour of the Dohany Shul under the guidance of an amazing tour leader and friend to SOS. Followed by another great meal, and then a walk around town. I hope my body has adjusted for we have a long day tomorrow. I look forward to more authentic learning at the Lauder Javne campus!
