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My favorite moment

in the Czech Republic was when I passed the old violinist again as I was starting the climb down from Prague Castle. In the last few hours remaining before I had to check out of my hostel, I figured I should at least look around Prague Castle as it is one of the main attractions in Prague.

The walk to Prague Castle was actually longer and hillier than I thought, and I was starting to regret coming out of the hostel and barely making it back. But then a group of musicians started to play in front of the Castle- it was four older men dressed in suits & ties and playing classical instruments, sometimes singing in Spanish. I was ecstatic because I was wishing I could encounter another live performance on the streets before I leave Prague. Didn’t expect one in front of the Castle! I have a recording of it which is enjoyable to listen to, even now. Street musicians are seriously one of the best things in the world. In my opinion. But I’m sure a lot of people would agree (haha). I appreciated their provision of music so I dropped in a few coins. Then I overheard a Korean tour guide explaining to a group of… Korean monks (So random, I know) that such groups are probably hired and paid by the tourist department.

I had to leave after listening to them for a few minutes. Then I remembered, the old violinist that I saw on the way up probably needs the money more than this group of ‘professional’ guys do. I saw the old violinist still playing his violin, and saw his empty violin case. I hurriedly dropped a few coins again and a bill without looking at the musician, as I wouldn’t need Czech money anymore anyways. He stopped me. I turned around. He stuck out his hand to shake my hand. I don’t think he could speak. I think he may be mute. But he was mouthing something that clearly meant ‘thank you’, as I saw him motioning his hands towards his heart- and his eyes communicated the most genuine thing I have seen and shared in awhile. All of a sudden I felt like my heart was at my throat.

He wasn’t the best violinist- the past two days I was so happy to listen to and experience phenomenal music and performances in places such as Prague’s renowned National Theatre and in another building that has the reputation of having one of the best acoustics in the world- but this one is the one that moved my heart. This one is the one I will remember about Prague.

by soomin