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Celloing in a city near you 😈HUGE thank you to the incredible, multitalented, cultural leader @tourreportnc for including me in #ksttrcolumn in @yesweekly336 🤠

#repost • @tourreportnc As DJ Suzchef, @ssssuzzzz the musical captain of tonight’s “yacht rockin’” house hangs at @ncma.winstonsalem. As a native New Yorker and classically-trained cellist, Susan Santos-Mandel has trained all over that city—from Carnegie Hall to the Tonight Show. SNL to the Brooklyn Bowl—working with major artists like @aliciakeys and @cynthiaerivo.

A music coordinator on Erivo’s upcoming album, Santos-Mandel blends New York minutes with Winston living; and sings the praises of the Triad artsworld in the latest #ksttrcolumn. @yesweekly336

Celloing in a city near you 😈HUGE thank you to the incredible, multitalented, cultural leader @tourreportnc for including me in #ksttrcolumn in @yesweekly336 🤠

#repost • @tourreportnc As DJ Suzchef, @ssssuzzzz the musical captain of tonight’s “yacht rockin’” house hangs at @ncma.winstonsalem. As a native New Yorker and classically-trained cellist, Susan Santos-Mandel has trained all over that city—from Carnegie Hall to the Tonight Show. SNL to the Brooklyn Bowl—working with major artists like @aliciakeys and @cynthiaerivo.

A music coordinator on Erivo’s upcoming album, Santos-Mandel blends New York minutes with Winston living; and sings the praises of the Triad artsworld in the latest #ksttrcolumn. @yesweekly336

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

This is a @thesinfonietta @macyjschmidt @barbiethemovieinconcert appreciation post dedicated to the unwavering commitment to advocacy for women. The experience was nothing short of life-changing! It was the honor of a life time to be among my Cello Barbies. I couldn’t stop crying during the last song! Thank you thank you thank you @collmccor @madisonjeanwechsler @hollywoodbowl @mattel and all the West Coast Barbies for welcoming us with such warmth and kindness 💓 SUBLIME 💞🫶🏽💗

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to play the music of @jonbatiste last night at Carnegie and to support the outstanding musicianship and leadership of @_glennalexanderii and @allthewongnotes 🫡These two are undoubtedly stars, leading the way in the future classical music ⭐️

#repost • @carnegiehall Last night, @JonBatiste premiered “American Symphony,” his latest opus and a culmination of more than a century of Black brilliance at Carnegie Hall. ⁠
⁠
In the piece, the Oscar-winning composer salutes musical visionaries—such as Duke Ellington, James Reese Europe, Mahalia Jackson, and Nina Simone—who once stood on the very stage of this performance. ⁠
⁠
Originally scheduled for May 2022, last night’s world premiere was also commissioned by Carnegie Hall. 📷: @StephanieBergerPhotography

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to play the music of @jonbatiste last night at Carnegie and to support the outstanding musicianship and leadership of @_glennalexanderii and @allthewongnotes 🫡These two are undoubtedly stars, leading the way in the future classical music ⭐️

#repost • @carnegiehall Last night, @JonBatiste premiered “American Symphony,” his latest opus and a culmination of more than a century of Black brilliance at Carnegie Hall. ⁠
⁠
In the piece, the Oscar-winning composer salutes musical visionaries—such as Duke Ellington, James Reese Europe, Mahalia Jackson, and Nina Simone—who once stood on the very stage of this performance. ⁠
⁠
Originally scheduled for May 2022, last night’s world premiere was also commissioned by Carnegie Hall. 📷: @StephanieBergerPhotography

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to play the music of @jonbatiste last night at Carnegie and to support the outstanding musicianship and leadership of @_glennalexanderii and @allthewongnotes 🫡These two are undoubtedly stars, leading the way in the future classical music ⭐️

#repost • @carnegiehall Last night, @JonBatiste premiered “American Symphony,” his latest opus and a culmination of more than a century of Black brilliance at Carnegie Hall. ⁠
⁠
In the piece, the Oscar-winning composer salutes musical visionaries—such as Duke Ellington, James Reese Europe, Mahalia Jackson, and Nina Simone—who once stood on the very stage of this performance. ⁠
⁠
Originally scheduled for May 2022, last night’s world premiere was also commissioned by Carnegie Hall. 📷: @StephanieBergerPhotography

It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to play the music of @jonbatiste last night at Carnegie and to support the outstanding musicianship and leadership of @_glennalexanderii and @allthewongnotes 🫡These two are undoubtedly stars, leading the way in the future classical music ⭐️

#repost • @carnegiehall Last night, @JonBatiste premiered “American Symphony,” his latest opus and a culmination of more than a century of Black brilliance at Carnegie Hall. ⁠
⁠
In the piece, the Oscar-winning composer salutes musical visionaries—such as Duke Ellington, James Reese Europe, Mahalia Jackson, and Nina Simone—who once stood on the very stage of this performance. ⁠
⁠
Originally scheduled for May 2022, last night’s world premiere was also commissioned by Carnegie Hall. 📷: @StephanieBergerPhotography

Cool photo by @the_line_up 🫡

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

Had such a fantastic time returning to NYU clivedavisinst—always inspiring to be back in that space and connect with the next gen of industry professionals. Huge thanks to @ericaswindell , @chiarafasi, and @laviniapavlish for making it so special.

The students reminded me of something I wrote a few weeks ago—something that keeps coming back, and honestly, it may be the hill die on. As the great, late Dr. John said: “the best teacher is experience.”

And being in rooms like this, you see exactly why that’s true. But what do you think?

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

those who want respect, give respect 🏦

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Been thinking a lot about Hawaii after traveling there for the first time. Hawaii reminds me of being super young going to my ate @owelandst and Kuya Andrew’s wedding in the Philippines (love you and happy new year ate)… maybe it came to mind bc of the shared lineage of Pacific islandic beauty and systemic trauma? Both bear centuries old indelible scars ofr*ped and pillaged resources, to put it gently, where Hawaiians were forced to reorganized, re-conceptualize themselves through the lens of western colonization. (Also maybe it’s that spam and rice thing too).

This historical tragedy (not unlike most south-east Asian countries) creates a super somber subtext to every place we visited, acknowledging that these islands were once battlegrounds, ports, graveyards, etc.

AND YET, the literal earthly wonders of Hawaii remain intact. Its acclaim is not merely a product of its crazy, wild, weird natural beauty, but of a profound ecological and human resilience. Despite the dark history, the vitality of the nature and the enduring spirit of the people (natives, first, second, third gen alike), persist as the primary reason these islands are regarded as some of the most extraordinary sanctuaries on Earth.

Anyway, here’s wonderwall (Cyril Pahinui)

Do I play the chello or does the chello play me?

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

Still DJing/celloing round town… 🎶🫶🏽
TY @wondersmithent for introducing me to the reigning celloess of thine path train @frocellogirl and for the most star studded evening at @lincolncenter w @mclyte 🎻
TY @the8bitbigband for the honor of Celloing in the lone star state 🤠
TY @theramkat for the most fun excuse to wear my blue wig 💙

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*Face and grammy cert for the algo*

In the wake of unbelievable violence and suffering, I humbly request to my friends, my colleagues, the good people of the music community - please consider a donation to Doctors Without Borders. They are on the ground, providing a lifeline for those who depend on it.

The long time homies know I have a storied history of weird, silly, themed birthday celebrations on October 13 — this year, in reflection of my upcoming annual reminder of existence on earth, the gravity of the world demands a different kind of reflection, so I ask for your consideration towards this fund.

Thank you for your consideration and for your generosity in a time that calls for it most urgently.

*also honored to have been a part of @jonbatiste American Symphony thank you for the Grammy Cert* s/o to @scotttixier for the call nearly 4 years ago*

#Gaza #HumanitarianAid #DoctorsWithoutBorders #Peace #MusicCommunity #CompassionInAction

It’s hard to believe it’s almost a decade since this opportunity with the incredible @chelseasymphony and @maestroaubin. Video by @videobeast 🫡

Navigating pride in my ethno-religious background feels particularly…complex these days, yet I wish everyone a truly thoughtful and reflective Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Judaic calendar. For those observing the fast, I wish you and us strength and profound introspection. 🪴