Finding passion in every step: My Story with the Bachata Academy
Josepha Back, Academy of Bachata volunteer
Hello everyone, I'm Josepha Back, a music student from Berlin, Germany. I'd like to share some insights about my volunteer experience at the Bachata Academy. In September of last year, I traveled to the northern region of Haiti to participate in the music program at the University of Cap-Haitien, with the aim of enriching my future music lessons with Haitian music culture.
However, my plan encountered difficulties due to political instability in the north. Consequently, I adapted my plans and journeyed to the Dominican Republic in search of musical inspiration. During this time, I chanced upon a concert by the Bachata Academy and was immediately captivated by the prospect of learning from them. Initially intending to volunteer for just one semester, my experience extended to two as I delved into the world of the Bachata Academy, gaining a wealth of knowledge and skills along the way.
Since I couldn't bring along my cherished instrument, my cello, I found ways to contribute in various capacities like music theory, piano, children's choir, and acting as a chaperone for trips and concerts. During my initial months as a volunteer, I didn't speak Spanish, and the rapid pace of Dominican Spanish posed a challenge. However, after a few months, I began to offer English courses to a scholarship-winning student bound for the USA. I also started guiding improvisation classes and coordinating lessons for new Bachata Academy students.
One highlight of my volunteer experience was when the Bachata Academy's sub-director took me to Santiago and allowed me to lead sectional rehearsals with the cellists of the Youth Symphony Orchestra. This moment will forever be etched in my memory as a significant milestone.
My time as a volunteer sadly concluded in August 2023. I'm eager to return to my home in Germany and share my experience with my students, teaching them both Bachata, Merengue, and Kompa rhythms from Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
