Metro Musicians

Friday, February 16, 2007

Musicians in the metro
Just came across kind of an interesting article on musicians that we have heard performing in the metro lines. "In typical French fashion, putting esthetics above all other needs, not only must Métro performers be licensed, but they must also be accredited by l'Espace Métro Accords (EMA). Since 1997, the EMA selects the artists and musicians authorized to perform in the corridors of the subway. Twice per year, there are more than 1000 who audition in front of a jury made up of agents of the RATP, which in turn grants approximately 300 accreditations. This selection is insurance for the travelers to enjoy the highest of musical quality! In 2003, the Métro musicians recorded a CD of the best 14 representing the 14 lines of Métro, after a panel of judges heard 360 musicians, favoring original works. It was distributed by FNAC, Virgin and other music retailers. The Métro majority of musicians are men, but surprisingly 47% are women, and 65% perform alone, rather than in duets, trios or groups. Naturally, these musicians are immigrants from all over the world -- so they offer a broad repertory: medieval songs, symphonics, songs of North Africa, jazz and blues...and the corridors of the Métro resound in musical colors. " Perhaps those of you who are coming to visit may hear some of them. Today (Wed) all day it has been raining. We are going to an off site wedding reception tonight, so that should be interesting. John had the wedding this aft. The bride was late, (not so unusual in France) and kept everyone waiting over a half hour. Cheerio. Sharon --


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