Between East and West

Travelling is an important part of our lives.
Many people travel to work, school or leisure every day.
In some countries, it is quite normal to spend an hour in the morning and evening to
“commute” - by train, car or subway to work and home.
Another form of travel is vacation, either at home or by plane to farther places.
Travel can also be part of one's job: not only flight attendants, but also business people, politicians, top athletes and artists are often on the road.
To travel is fascinating and interesting, you come into contact with different people, cultures, customs, weather conditions and eating habits.

Many things are also the same.
You have to be on time, alert and careful in traffic.
You also have to watch your belongings, pack suitcases for further travel, if you go by car you have to make sure you have fuel - or enough electricity....

As exhausting as traveling can be, it is also enriching.
You always encounter new, unexpected things.
You meet people, you see beautiful or interesting things.
If you have time - and a seat - you can work, read a book or listen to music.

Every country and continent has different customs and atmosphere, smells and sounds.

I love traveling - both for work and for vacation.
You learn new things, you see beautiful nature and culture, you imagine yourself in another world for a while.
I also love observing people - learning from differences, adapting and enjoying new impressions.

By now I have my favorite places in the world, where I like to return.
Nice contacts, nice climate, good food and a friendly atmosphere.

Music is everywhere - on the streets, in concert halls, in the subway and you can even hear music from the windows. People with headphones, or listening to street musicians, the pianos at train stations, chimes from church steeples - from Asia to America, music is the common denominator. Japanese drums, jazz on the streets of New Orleans, gypsy music in a restaurant next to the Donau and French chansons in a café guide our paths.

Music is so universal - it connects people, it comforts and entertains.
It brings back memories, helps you make new friends and sometimes fills uncomfortable silences.

As summer announces itself, I challenge you: try to enjoy a minute of music every day.
Wherever you are, whatever the music - on the street, from your earbuds, on the subway or at the beach, at home or on vacation, from Asia to America: make it a musical summer!

- Gabi Rynveld