Hello from Kazakhstan
Hello TABC parents and friends,
We have arrived safe and sound. The tour is going very well and the boys are definitely on the top of their game. Even though we had some fatigue factor, especially at rehearsal Monday afternoon, the boys have been remarkable world travelers……very cooperative and pleasant.
The day trip to Moscow was extraordinary. Our professional tour guide, Tatiana, was very good about making the tour “boy friendly”. The weather was overcast and cool and at one point we got a few drops of rain. However, the coolness was welcomed. We were told the previous day in Moscow was very hot and humid.
Highlights of the tour included Swan Lake , Moscow Overlook which is the highest point in the city and the Kremlin. Be sure to read details in James Mendola’s article in the Tucson Citizen next Tuesday, After our day in Moscow, we had another overnight flight…this time to Almaty, Kazakhstan
The boys are definitely celebrities here in Kazakhstan . The welcome we received in Almaty is overwhelming. Our flight was due to arrive at 5:30am on Monday morning. It was late. After being late, going through customs and getting our luggage it was close to 6:45am . There was a welcoming entourage that had been waiting for close to an hour and a half.
And what a welcoming party it was. Dozens of people from the Isker Boy Choir, including all the host families, were on hand with shouts and cheers of welcome. There was a huge banner with the TABC name. Four representatives were dressed in traditional Kazakh costumes. When the boys arrived through the door the crowd threw candies and coin at them while cheering and clapping. What a welcome!
The host families are excellent. Many of the boys are staying with families whose boys stayed with them while in Tucson . All are being treated as special guests.
We have had a combined rehearsal with Isker and one short TABC concert in the Museum of Kazakh Folk Instruments . We have a combined concert tonight at the Presbyterian Church and the big concert Thursday evening at the City Concert Hall. I heard that the tickets are sold out. Later in the week we will take a day trip up the mountain for a day of fun.
All is going well. The only problem so far is one missing suitcase….John Lazzeroni’s! However, it has been found and he will get it back today. John has been awesome….very flexible and not much concerned about his suitcase. Thanks to Chris Eubanks who shared some clothes with John.
Well, must go. I will be meeting the boys shortly for a second combined rehearsal with Isker at the Music Conservatory in preparation for the big concert. Hope all is well in Tucson .
Regards,
Julian Ackerley
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