Mention Brazil and most people will immediately think of two places: Rio de Janeiro and the Amazon. AYS visited both, and each was an unparalleled adventure. On the third day of our Brazil tour, we set off for a brief venture into the wonders of the Amazon...

Brazil is an exotic land of contrasts and surprises, with cultures spanning Stone Age to Space Age. A vast country larger than our own "Lower 48" — and it's not all just jungle. A long, rich history of exploration, art, music, politics, and immigration. An optimistic and friendly populace that is justifiably proud of its own vibrant culture yet warmly welcomes visitors from the U.S. And maybe — just maybe — the next World Cup soccer champions? (We hope so for our newfound friends.)

These are just a few of our discoveries about South America's largest country. The Albuquerque Youth Symphony (AYS) recently returned from a 13-day concert tour of five Brazilian cities. I'd intended to blog about it while on the trip, but international technical difficulties stymied me. So now, late but still exhilirating, here is our story of an adventure of a lifetime...

While Mike Kruchoski continues battling techno problems, the Albuquerque Youth Symphony continues to play to enthusiastic audiences. Here's one happy listener's response (we didn't "clean up" his English because, apologetic though he is for its shortcomings, we also think he's proud to use it):

Hello, I' m Cláudio Fernandes and I' m writing from Brasil....

Mike Kruchoski is STILL having computer difficulties in Brazil. But he called another parent from the Youth Symphony's trip in Belo Horizonte today. And via that phone call, here's the latest update ...