If I don't lose a few pounds on this trip, I'll know there's something wrong with me. I walk a lot today. I left this morning to go to the music store district; there is something so beautiful about a whole long block with almost nothing but luthiers and sheet music stores. And that there's a lutherie for violas, some specifically for les contrebasses... I didn't find what I was looking for, but I found a few other things (it's probably good that I didn't find everything, because I would definitely have to get another piece of luggage). It's also nice that music stores haven't disappeared completely. Trust me, I love the ease of going online to order sheet music, find almost everything you need in one place, but it's so nice to go into a store and browse, not to mention support a small business. I then walked down to the Avenue Montaigne, and felt like a total schlub walking by all Fendi, Vuitton, Escada, etc. in my New Balance sneakers...I was en route to a theater where there's a concert I want to see later this week, and I wanted to get a ticket in advance in case it was sold out. But of course the ticket office was closed.
I was so close to the Eiffel Tour, I decided to keep going for a little longer, and walked toward it along the Seine (this is going on hour 3 of walking). It was lovely and there were all ages of school children playing in the park at the base of the tower. Also passed the very cool plant-covered exterior of the Museum of the Quai Branly (see above)...this is kind of what my dream house might look like.
Spent the rest of the afternoon laying down for a bit, practicing. I tried to go to the opera again, this time for La Boheme, but was told there would be no more student tickets sold because the line was already so long. Will have to decide next time how long I want to stand in line...I think one really needs to get there 1.5 hrs before show at least.
I've had contact with a few more coaches/teachers, and my schedule for the rest of the trip is filling up quickly. Should be exciting : )
And just because: so much depends upon...
