Harlemm... #4

The cultural aspect of Harlem is really amazing. The way the people of Harlem have preserved their ethnicity and culture even in a new city is amazing to see because it's something different than the everyday Hillsdale and River Vale, NJ. My favorite part of the trip was the Apollo theater because our tour guide, Billy, was sweeet. He added a lot to the building and you could tell from the way he spoke about everything that he really loved his job and the history behind the amazing theater. It's unbelievable how many famous musicians started at amateur night at the theater. This really intrigued me to look into the specific artists who have come from the theater. At  http://apollotheater.org/amateur_night.html there is a list of artists who have participated in or won a past amateur night. This list includes some of the most famous people of all time. The one that interested me most was Billie Holiday because her music has been influential in my life. Her music calms me down and the beautiful sadness in her voice makes her music one of a kind. The songs she sings are so powerful to me because they contain so much emotion and beauty. I could listen to her songs whether i need to be cheered up or if i want to keep up my cheer. I think Billie Holiday is an amazing symbol of Harlem. She has raw emotion and beauty. I also learned from this website http://www.biography.com/deathiversary/billie-holiday/billie-holiday.jsp, that Billie's early life was rough. Her beginnings were rough but out of those hardships she grew into a wonderful women. She is a symbol of Harlem because Harlem had rough beginnings or middles with times  of intense drug use, gangs, and prostitution. However, this city has grown into an extremely cultural and beautiful place. The tour we took of Harlem on our field trip showed me that Harlem has a lot more to offer than meets the eye. Being in a place that is so well rounded with different cultures was a wake up call to how all places should be. 

This trip has taught me not to judge a book by its cover and to always grow from mistakes and hardships. Harlem is a beautiful that has helped and inspired many people. Although it may seem a little less upscale than the upper east side it has a rich history which adds to the notorious city.