'Thoughts on the Folklore Concert'

'Folklore?' 'Puka Soncco?' Not really sure what I was in for, I thought I would at least be able to enjoy some different music.

After finding my seat, I was relieved to flip through the program and see some songs that I knew; however, once the concert began, I was really swept away by the sound of these three men playing. It was fascinating to watch them playing instruments that I had never seen before (kena, etc.). Lost in the music, I forgot all about my hunger, and the stresses of the day's work. As the program progressed, I was listening to Puka Soncco's music (Puka Soncco means 'warm heart') with images of the people and scenery in the Andes dancing in my head.

It was also a really special moment when all of the newly arrived JICA participants joined Puka Soncco on stage, and danced to the music. There was also a performance from the Acacia Taiko group. All in all, it was a fantastic concert; the audience enjoyed all of the songs, singing along to some, and clapping along to many others. Somehow, I had the feeling that, through the music, the spirits of the performers and the audience became one.

Thank you for the opportunity to enjoy such a wonderful concert.

T.N.