"Why Cambodia?" is the next question on everyone's lips and perhaps it is time to explore and answer. The magic that I have experienced there is beyond words, is beyond explanation, and to truly "get it", you have to see it for yourself. If you want to come and visit, let me know.
Cambodia is a country where you can shine your heart and share your love everywhere you go. People will look you in the eye and smile back at you. They will hold space and receive whatever you have to offer, so it is very important to remain mindful, humble, and discerning so that one does not offer something that is not needed. Cambodia is a country where so much is needed, I feel it is a place where I can reach my potential, where I can be my best self.
There are a number of organizations and projects that I have been a part of for the last six years and they are growing and blooming before my very eyes. The first organization that I became involved with was Music Arts School where my skills as a musician, music teacher, collaborator, arranger, conductor, composer, improvisor, and administrator have all been put to good use.
My friends and I were encouraged to visit the four EYC schools and perform music for the children and we quickly discovered how talented many of them were. My dear beloved friend Linda set out to bring music classes to all of the schools by donating a good quality electric keyboard to each school (weighted keys and a pedal) and establishing the funding for a Cambodian piano teacher to visit each school once a week and teach the children.
Keyboards were the obvious instrument because of their versatility and accessibility. Although I would have loved to see celli in every school, the need for different sized celli for different sized children, maintenance and upkeep of the instruments, etc would be very difficult. The children of EYC now have music as part of their weekly education. Some of them take piano lessons, some of the older children learn guitar, and our friend Samnang is teaching beginner violin to two students at one of the four schools due to the generous donation of two violins from friends abroad.
Yes, that's only two of the four schools - you see why I have to go back? It's not fair otherwise!
And then there is the World Peace Project started by my dear friend Dara. Dara was the first female certified yoga teacher in Cambodia and she is inspired to teach yoga to children as a practice that offers liberation, healing, and health benefits.
While spending time in Asia, I have also visited Nepal and have connected with a music school there called Musica Music Institute - a big name for a very small space that was founded by a wonderful young man named Dinesh. Linda introduced me to Dinesh and he instantly treated me like family. He connected me with the music scene in Kathmandu, countless friends of his, and showed me one very simple way I can make a difference in Nepal: show young women that girls can rock! There is a very healthy music scene in Kathmandu, but the bands and performers are 99% males.
There are zero red-headed, female cellist-singer-songwriters in Nepal. That's my cue!
On my most recent visit to Nepal, I was there for two weeks, which was not enough time to train with Dn's organization, travel to the areas where they are building, and help with some of the construction. Next time I visit Nepal, I want to be there for long enough that I can make a meaningful contribution. It also gives me good incentive to get into better shape!
If you'd like to join me in Phnom Penh, write me an email with your dates and travel budget, I'll set you up for a wonderful time.
"Yeah, but can't you do that in Canada?" they all ask. The answer is no, not without substantial financial backing. A freelance musician's salary doesn't go very far in Canada, whereas in Cambodia I can do two or three gigs a week and make enough money to pay my bills so I can spend the rest of my time volunteering and doing what I love.
If you'd like to support me and help me follow my dreams please listen to my music on Bandcamp (even if you don't pay to download my songs, it makes me look good on paper which helps me get grants and sponsors), and check out my Patreon page. Better yet, make donations directly to these organizations and get a tax-deductible receipt.