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Sophomore Allijah Motika of Asheville
- What was your favorite experience on this trip?
“There have been two days of this tour that I could easily call the best days of my life. The first was in Lucerne. Even though I can’t spell the name of the city, it was the most beautiful place that I have ever been. It was the perfect place and I didn’t want to leave. At the concert that night, I experienced something that had never happened to me before. I cried at choral music. The acoustics in that cathedral were overwhelming and the sound that Chamber Singers made on “Calling my Children Home” and “Precious Lord” was incredible. I was moved by that concert as I never have been before with choral music. The second day was our day in Rothenburg. More than the emotions of our final concert or the beautiful views, etc., it was just a perfect day. Everything unfolded beautifully and smoothly. Dinner was delicious, shopping was great, our time at the Italian place after the concert was so much fun – everything just worked. I want to thank everyone who made this trip possible for giving us this incredible experience.”
- How has your perspective changed on this trip?
- “My perspective of the world hasn’t necessarily changed, but it has been confirmed. I always try to believe in the goodness of people and the kindness that we all share, regardless of the language we speak. I have come across more nice people in Europe than I have ever come across in my life. I also learned that only England drives on the other side of the road, which absolutely blew my mind.”
- What have you learned through your experiences?
“By experiencing Europe, I have most importantly learned about connection. All boils down to connection whether it be innate or created. I have grown close with this group of singers. This connection has been made mostly through the music that we have sung together. It has been an experience of a lifetime, something that I will bring with me on every other journey I take. I have also made connections with cities, buildings, and people outside the choir (and visited) the most welcoming rooms that I’ve ever stepped inside. The city of Lucerne made me feel like I was supposed to be there for the rest of my life. All of these connections have inspired me. They have taught gratitude and honor. This journey has solidified my aspirations and encouraged me to perspire in order to reach them. The connections that I have made along this journey will help me grow as I move through life. This trip has been incredibly meaningful to me. I am so thankful that I was able to be a part of it.”
