We launched into the tour with great expectations. We knew the people in Cuba were in dire straits. The economy had tanked and the situation was worse than our last visit one year ago. We had lined up to play in 4 prisons but the political situation had become so precarious that those concerts were canceled at the last moment. HOWEVER, new venues opened to us: The Casa de la Musica in Havana – the place in which everyone tries to get a gig. In addition, a food distribution point, a government senior complex, the government Music Academy etc. We had some new musicians on this tour, they were able to add their own musical flavor and kind hearts to our IHS family. Also, chairs in the band were again filled with excellent Cuban talent. A fine Cuban string section augmented the band. We are encouraged that many heard the Good News and were able to leave the cares of the day behind for at least a little while. The finest thing about Cuba is the people – big-hearted, kind and loving.

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