Help send Jasmine to Italy!

Jasmine Kuo Start Date: Mar 6, 2015 - End Date: Jun 13, 2015

My Travel Story

by: Jasmine Kuo Start Date: Mar 6, 2015 - End Date: Jun 13, 2015
"Music can change the world," said renowned Classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven; that is one of the things I’ve realized during the countless hours I have spent and enjoyed making music. Bringing music to various audiences and listening to others’ compositions has changed me and my involvement with my community by giving me confidence, uniqueness, and most importantly, interaction with others- showing me the beauty of culture through the most beautiful art this world can find.

In summer 2011, I had the opportunity to perform on tour as a second violinist with the San Jose Youth Symphony in Italy, Austria and Germany. Besides being able to create music alongside local European youth orchestras, I was quite literally pushed headfirst into a new culture that was completely different that that of the United States, which meant I had to quickly adapt into European customs and of course, languages. Being passionate about traveling and culture I had already begun my studies in various dialets, but it was during this tour I first discovered that no matter how "connected" we think we are with any one subject by doing our research and reading books...that can only get you so far. I quickly realized that “only” knowing how to play my respective instrument isn’t enough to get by in the real world out there, and the only way to truly connect with others is through communication, speaking with not only their music, but their language. Italy was and will forever be my first step on European soil, my first musical performance outside my home in the United States, and the most meaningful experience I have ever had.

Four years later, I am halfway through my second year of university education and I am unbelievably proud to be studying Italian language and continuing my education in Classical music at the piano. I know music is a costly and sometimes tedious life, but it is the one I have chosen and I couldn't be more privileged to say that I am traveling to Europe one more time.

I want to thank my family for supporting me this far, as well as my friends and teachers; I definitely would not have been able to come this far without you all, and I really appreciate all your help! Hope you all have a wonderful day.

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