A Flutist Forever Grateful
By Cynthia Gutierrez, graduate student in music education
It’s Wednesday morning, Oct. 9, 2013. I’m sitting in the orchestra as we’ve begun rehearsal. A morning person by nature, I’m giddy with enthusiasm; it’s a glorious day. The sun is shining and the 360-degree views are breathtaking, making it hard to focus on the rehearsal. It’s hard not to be in a good mood in this magical place. As I write this the chorus is on stage rehearsing their number, “Oh the Pleasure of the Plains” and it couldn’t be truer.
Much pleasure has been yielded from this beautiful country. Words and maybe even pictures can’t express what it feels like to be performing on this beautiful handmade stage, in this beautiful location at the Royal Textile Academy. As if the scenery isn’t enough to thrill the senses, the collaboration of so many talented forces coming together most definitely is. The orchestra, the chorus, the leads and even the tech and production people come together from all areas of the world. From Croatia to Australia and with different languages and customs, we are all unified through music.
The Bhutan Royal Academy of Performing Arts musicians are completely amazing. I’m so happy that they are honoring us with their talents in this production. I am moved to tears when Sangay Wangmo, RAPA vocalist and dancer begins her number, “Love Song and Dance.” One woman, unaccompanied, has such grace and beauty in her tone that she can still a flutter of activity and command the attention of all passers by. Exactly the same as our lead vocalist, Francesca Lombardi Mazzulli does when she thrills us with her beautiful operatic virtuosity.
I have always known the benefits of music and its positive effects, but I would’ve never imagined it could bring me here and that it could tie me to such talented people from so many different walks of life. I am forever grateful to any and all who’ve made this experience possible for me. Thank you to His Royal Highness and officials of Bhutan for allowing us into your beautiful home. Thank you to Dr. Natalicio, Dr. Daudistel and Dr. McCorry-Andalis for your belief in this project and providing me and all students this opportunity. And last but certainly not least, a huge heartfelt and warm kadinchela (thank you) to Dr. Steve and Elisa Wilson who made sure that a flutist only playing in a few numbers had this amazing opportunity. This has truly been a life-changing experience and one that I will never in my lifetime forget.
