Early in our stay our first host family introduced us to Karaoke. On our first night with them they invited several friends over and hauled out the karaoke machine. We straight laced Canadians were somewhat embarassed and declined to test our voices. That didn't stop them though, and long after we went to bed (we had to get up early to go to work in the morning) they sang into the night. We didn't yet understand the depth of the passion.
Over the ensuing weeks we often found ourselves presented with a mike and asked to join in, but it was not until the end of the trip that any of us was cajoled into joining (way to go Nancy - great voice!). It is amazing how everyone here feels so comfortable with the mike and sounds so good. I am amazed that Hollywood talent scouts aren't here in droves handing out books of contracts (Willie, you really do sound like Maurice Chevalier - amazing sound!).
Nor is the singing reserved for the Karaoke club. On several occasions we were entertained by excellent choirs and dance reviews, some of professional quality. Our club in Lantzville is proud of its ability to sing O' Canada, but the bar has been raised - significantly. Picture this - A Rotary club standing up together to perform a routine for its guests. The Rotary Club of Meycauayan did. They performed a series of songs including a good piece of choreography for us. It could have come straight out of a 1940's Hollywood musical and it was performed specifically for us. It earned a standing ovation from an audience that was outnumbered by the cast.Even at our workshops music has been important. Not only do participants sing the national anthem, but some have used song to present an assignment and all have joined in to sing Thank you at the end.
There has been much that has been joyful during our time in this wonderful country, but nothing has been more fun than than the joy of music that permeates the soul of the people that we've met.
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