The Power of Music

by Marwa El-Agroudy (United Arab Emirates)

I didn't expect to find Austria

In the summer of 2017, I went traveling in Europe for 3 weeks. My sister, who so wanted to visit Greece, was joining me in a trip for the first time so to grant her her wish, the plan went as follows: Greece for the two of us then Croatia for only me. Unfortunately, 4 days before our trip her visa got rejected and she was no longer joining. Since Greece was her wish, I decided not to spend the whole duration in Greece, and I extracted a few days to go to Austria instead. Athens was stop no. 1 and that’s where I met Lissie, a musician from Austria. She was really nice; we talked a lot about travel and music and she even told me about that jazz festival that takes place each July in a small-town east of Austria called Nickelsdorf. What a coincidence? I was going to Austria on a last-minute change of plans! I could make it work if I wanted to. I was in Corfu at the time when I had my mind set on attending the festival. I checked their website for information but that was quite an unsuccessful attempt due to my rusty and almost nonexistent German. Alternatively, I emailed Lissie asking for help and on my behalf she gave the festival organizer a call. Hans, the owner of the jazz bar where the event takes place, informed Lissie that free camping grounds are offered for attendees. As much as I would have loved to camp, it would not have been convenient as I was not equipped with any camping gear at the time and I kind of needed my privacy. So, I had to ask Lissie again if she can check for another accommodation option for me. Shortly after, she emailed back saying that I should be expecting an email from Hans as he found something for me. The email I received from Hans was so overwhelming that it actually left me in tears. I was more than welcomed to stay with the cook’s family in their house. Ma’mon and his family were among the lucky ones who managed to escape the raging war in Syria to seek refuge in Europe. Hans talked to him about that veiled Muslim Egyptian lady who needed a place to stay for the festival and asked him if he doesn’t mind taking me in. Ma’mon said yes and just like that, I had a place for the night. That lovely family took me in, a complete stranger, without knowing anything about me except that I was a fellow Arab in need. The kindness those people bestowed on me without even knowing me brought tears to my eyes! I felt so much love and warmth at a time when I was being terribly perceived in Corfu! Sad to say, my looks and attire were not really welcomed on the Greek island and I was going through literally the worst time I ever had while on a trip. Therefore, the acceptance and affection I got through that email helped me out of the tough time I was going under and filled my heart with joy. I made it to Nickelsdorf for the festival putting my trust in those people whom I did not know the way they put theirs in me. I had such a great time and zero regrets. Everyone was extremely nice and helpful; Ma’mon and his family were so lovely and hospitable. I was not allowed to pay for anything because I was their guest and was given more than what I would have needed. Their generosity left me feeling humble and grateful. I was only able to attend the opening night of the 4-day festival. Even though it was only one night, it was still one to remember. Lissie joined as well and we all spent the night enjoying the music played by brilliant jazz musicians among them was the Dutch drummer Hen Bennink. It was a night of music that brought together people from Austria, Syria, and Egypt. People who are simple, who accepted and respected each other despite any religious or political differences which might have teared them apart!